Okay, "the King" might be pushing it, but Sidney Crosby is undeniably one of the most talented guys ever to lace up the skates. This is a short analysis on his comeback from a long absence due to concussion from last season.
The number of severe concussions in NHL seem to have increased in the past seasons. Maybe it's the fact that the game is now faster than ever and high-speed collisions have devastating effects. Maybe it's the instigator rule, that penalizes quite heavily on starting the brawls on the ice and thus making it less appealing to take matters in players' own hands after heavy hits on the most important players. Maybe it's just that the topic of concussions has become very popular in the gossipy sports journalism? Maybe we just have started to care more about player's health after some disturbing incidents and careers that have been cut off mid flight. Whatever the reason, concussion discussion is on, with high volume.
Sid the Kid has been cleared for contact practice. He must be torn apart with emotions. On the other hand he has to be afraid of the symptoms returning after receiving another hard hit. Then again, he was on top of the pedestal, the poster boy of hockey, the leading player in the league, and must hate having a white helmet for contact warning in practice and not being able to play the game he loves. The salary keeps rolling in even if he's not on the ice for games. The kid is a multimillionaire for the rest of his life. But that isn't the driving force. It is achieving immortality in the history of hockey by being the best of an era.
Well, young Mr. Crosby and his position among hockey's greatest is probably one of the most discussed topic in the hockey online boards. There's fans and haters, both equally emotional. But merely the fact that this much heated debate exists around him is a testament to the fact that he is a special talent. And everyone, who follows the game, should welcome Sidney Crosby back to the rinks with open arms.
But then, the prognosis. What will happen when he actually returns. The pressure is high now with the clearance from doctors, and Pittsburgh Penguins management has to eventually make the decision to let him loose. Will there be some unspoken league wide agreement to respect his return and let him accommodate to the game or will there be some loose cannons on the ice, aiming to crush him just to make a permanent dent in the Penguins' future. This way or that, given the time and avoiding further setback, Sidney Crosby will start to deliver in the offensive columns. Penguins will take a giant leap forwards and become the team to beat for the championship. After Crosby gets all cylinders pumping, he needs to be taken under special surveillance and constant harassment by the opposition. Hard hits will follow.
I'm eagerly waiting for Crosby's return, but also have a healthy dose of scepticism on his ability to remain healthy under the growing pressure. I hope he can avoid Marc Savard's destiny of losing the enge of his game due to constantly having to look over his shoulders and keep out of trouble, while at the same time diverting from the finely tuned optimal tracks in his game and perhaps opening the door for even bigger disasters in the form of physical contact. I hope he can return to his full potential and help the whole league take a step up in the competitive levels just to not let him dominate too much. Then it's up to the other star players in the league to overthrow the King from his throne. With talent, not with violence.
2011/10/20
2011/10/15
The Finnish line
Okay, season 2011-2012 is pumping on all cylinders. Some teams are taking a while to get their act together and some have come out of the gates flying. It's time to honor the reigning world champions and list the Finns involved in the NHL action. Highlighting the most interesting guys and throwing some guesses on how they'll do this year. Alphabetically, for practicality.
Sean Bergenheim, Florida. Sean had a tremendous playoff run in Tampa last year and ended up cashing in on the contract with Florida. He's still young, entering the prime of his career and has it all up for grabs. Bergenheim is a bull on skates, and can definitely spark up any team's second line with some speed and grind when needed.
Valtteri Filppula, Detroit. Filppula is a wizard. Extremely talented playmaker, looking at a bright future in the NHL for years to come. The fact he's locked a permanent position in Red Wings starting lineup tells a lot. And once Datsuyk and Zetterberg leave more time for the younger corps, it's going to be Filppula's time in the spotlight. Hopefully he stays healthy and can be one of the guys carrying this famed franchise forward.
Niklas Hagman, Calgary. Hagman has all the speed needed to make an impact in this league. However, he's been pretty streaky in the past seasons and I cannot see that changing. Calgary is just very boring team for creating anything magical. It would be about the last chance for Niklas to prove himself and maybe one more trade to some rising team would do the trick. Blue Jackets, Islanders, Avalanche, anyone?
Jussi Jokinen, Carolina. Jokinen ended up having another contract with Carolina in the end. He's a special player; seems to be way too slow and soft to make it, but has a tremendous ability of being in the right place at the right time. Hence Jokinen's productivity has been great for so long. Not to mention the cold as ice act on the shootouts. Jussi will carry on for couple more of these solid seasons before Carolina's new kids take over.
Olli Jokinen, Calgary. Former king of Florida has fallen deeper and deeper in the Flames. Given the optimal circumstances, Olli Jokinen could still dominate in this league. However, I can't see anyone risking the season just to give him the chance and ice time to make it happen. Maybe Olli should be packaged in a trade with Niklas Hagman for a team who would have the courage. Back to Florida for a all-Finnish line with Bergenheim? Boys might have some good time and create some production on the side.
Mikko Koivu, Minnesota. Well, the younger Koivu brother in the league is likely the best all around player that Finland has to offer. He took the team to the championship in the Worlds this spring and will continue making everyone around him world class players. I bet Mikko Koivu cannot wait for the next season when he'll be united with the new countryman superstar in the making, Mikael Granlund.
Saku Koivu, Anaheim. Older Koivu brother still keeps on producing. He's clearly enoying playing out his career with Teemu Selänne. Saku keeps on playing defensive center role and flashes some of the old time magic every now and then, especially on the power play. This guy would have broken into the ultimate top of all players in the league if he hadn't been injured in so many key moments of his career. Real class act.
Lauri Korpikoski, Phoenix. Korpikoski has sneaked out from being unknown to suddenly being seen as one of the cornerstones of young Coyotes' lineup. He is a grinder, tough to play against and has the speed and scoring ability to go with it. I see him getting a bigger role this season and proving that he belongs to this league for good.
Ville Leino, Buffalo. Leino got traded to Buffalo and had a massive deal under the new management. There's high expectations on his play, and I believe Leino has matured to pretty much fill those. He's an all around forward and easily covers with skills and hockey sense what he may lack in skate speed. Still relatively young, so he possesses all the tools to play an impressive career in the NHL.
Toni Lydman, Anaheim. Lydman keeps on playing solid defense and contributing to the quick turnaround game when needed. If he stays healthy, and locks a place in the powerplay unit with Lubomir Visnovsky on the blueline, there might be good numbers in his scoresheet at the end of the year. His best years may be behind, but there's still plenty of player left.
Joni Pitkänen, Carolina. Pitkänen has proven everyone that he's one of the league's leading offensive defencemen. When paired right and played behind talented forward units, he really provides extra punch for scoring. There's lots of rumors moving him away from Carolina, but that remains to be seen. At least the star of the season has shown that Joni is keeping up the pace just right. The issues come on the own defensive zone, where he really needs good support from the other d-man and the forward line.
Tuomo Ruutu, Carolina. Tuomo Ruutu is a player everyone must like. Well, maybe not the opposition, who needs to keep their heads up for this human wrecking ball. Fearless, competitive, talented and fair. His style of play has unfortunately taken a toll on several seasons, but let's hope he can dodge the injuries this season and keep on thrilling the fans with explosive moves on the ice.
Sami Salo, Vancouver. Salo has earned a permanent position on the Canucks' blue line. He may see fewer minutes every year, but will fill his spot perfectly. And there isn't a goaltender in the league who wouldn't know his slap shot. You can count a bunch of goals and a bucketful of bruises at the end of the season for opposition. And maybe some black and blue for Mikael Samuelsson and Ryan Kesler too for being in the line of fire..
Teemu Selänne, Anaheim. Well, who doesn't love mr. Selänne. The ageless Finnish Flash has returned and once he gets his game together, there will be another solid season of productive offence in the making. Most of Selänne's points will come from the power play this season, but who cares. He's got hall of fame written all over him.
Kimmo Timonen, Philadelphia. Timonen has been on the top of the league defencemen for ages. Maybe it's about time to let the younger guys take over some of the responsibilities. Regardless of the Kimmo will carry on in being ultra reliable on the own zone and a weapon on the visitors end.
Teemu Laakso, Sami Lepistö, Lennart Petrell and Petteri Nokelainen close up the quick review on the Finns on ice. They still have to take some time to prove that they belong to the starting lineup. Let's take a look at their progress little later on the season. I hope all the best for them in the fight for the spotlight.
Sean Bergenheim, Florida. Sean had a tremendous playoff run in Tampa last year and ended up cashing in on the contract with Florida. He's still young, entering the prime of his career and has it all up for grabs. Bergenheim is a bull on skates, and can definitely spark up any team's second line with some speed and grind when needed.
Valtteri Filppula, Detroit. Filppula is a wizard. Extremely talented playmaker, looking at a bright future in the NHL for years to come. The fact he's locked a permanent position in Red Wings starting lineup tells a lot. And once Datsuyk and Zetterberg leave more time for the younger corps, it's going to be Filppula's time in the spotlight. Hopefully he stays healthy and can be one of the guys carrying this famed franchise forward.
Niklas Hagman, Calgary. Hagman has all the speed needed to make an impact in this league. However, he's been pretty streaky in the past seasons and I cannot see that changing. Calgary is just very boring team for creating anything magical. It would be about the last chance for Niklas to prove himself and maybe one more trade to some rising team would do the trick. Blue Jackets, Islanders, Avalanche, anyone?
Jussi Jokinen, Carolina. Jokinen ended up having another contract with Carolina in the end. He's a special player; seems to be way too slow and soft to make it, but has a tremendous ability of being in the right place at the right time. Hence Jokinen's productivity has been great for so long. Not to mention the cold as ice act on the shootouts. Jussi will carry on for couple more of these solid seasons before Carolina's new kids take over.
Olli Jokinen, Calgary. Former king of Florida has fallen deeper and deeper in the Flames. Given the optimal circumstances, Olli Jokinen could still dominate in this league. However, I can't see anyone risking the season just to give him the chance and ice time to make it happen. Maybe Olli should be packaged in a trade with Niklas Hagman for a team who would have the courage. Back to Florida for a all-Finnish line with Bergenheim? Boys might have some good time and create some production on the side.
Mikko Koivu, Minnesota. Well, the younger Koivu brother in the league is likely the best all around player that Finland has to offer. He took the team to the championship in the Worlds this spring and will continue making everyone around him world class players. I bet Mikko Koivu cannot wait for the next season when he'll be united with the new countryman superstar in the making, Mikael Granlund.
Saku Koivu, Anaheim. Older Koivu brother still keeps on producing. He's clearly enoying playing out his career with Teemu Selänne. Saku keeps on playing defensive center role and flashes some of the old time magic every now and then, especially on the power play. This guy would have broken into the ultimate top of all players in the league if he hadn't been injured in so many key moments of his career. Real class act.
Lauri Korpikoski, Phoenix. Korpikoski has sneaked out from being unknown to suddenly being seen as one of the cornerstones of young Coyotes' lineup. He is a grinder, tough to play against and has the speed and scoring ability to go with it. I see him getting a bigger role this season and proving that he belongs to this league for good.
Ville Leino, Buffalo. Leino got traded to Buffalo and had a massive deal under the new management. There's high expectations on his play, and I believe Leino has matured to pretty much fill those. He's an all around forward and easily covers with skills and hockey sense what he may lack in skate speed. Still relatively young, so he possesses all the tools to play an impressive career in the NHL.
Toni Lydman, Anaheim. Lydman keeps on playing solid defense and contributing to the quick turnaround game when needed. If he stays healthy, and locks a place in the powerplay unit with Lubomir Visnovsky on the blueline, there might be good numbers in his scoresheet at the end of the year. His best years may be behind, but there's still plenty of player left.
Joni Pitkänen, Carolina. Pitkänen has proven everyone that he's one of the league's leading offensive defencemen. When paired right and played behind talented forward units, he really provides extra punch for scoring. There's lots of rumors moving him away from Carolina, but that remains to be seen. At least the star of the season has shown that Joni is keeping up the pace just right. The issues come on the own defensive zone, where he really needs good support from the other d-man and the forward line.
Tuomo Ruutu, Carolina. Tuomo Ruutu is a player everyone must like. Well, maybe not the opposition, who needs to keep their heads up for this human wrecking ball. Fearless, competitive, talented and fair. His style of play has unfortunately taken a toll on several seasons, but let's hope he can dodge the injuries this season and keep on thrilling the fans with explosive moves on the ice.
Sami Salo, Vancouver. Salo has earned a permanent position on the Canucks' blue line. He may see fewer minutes every year, but will fill his spot perfectly. And there isn't a goaltender in the league who wouldn't know his slap shot. You can count a bunch of goals and a bucketful of bruises at the end of the season for opposition. And maybe some black and blue for Mikael Samuelsson and Ryan Kesler too for being in the line of fire..
Teemu Selänne, Anaheim. Well, who doesn't love mr. Selänne. The ageless Finnish Flash has returned and once he gets his game together, there will be another solid season of productive offence in the making. Most of Selänne's points will come from the power play this season, but who cares. He's got hall of fame written all over him.
Kimmo Timonen, Philadelphia. Timonen has been on the top of the league defencemen for ages. Maybe it's about time to let the younger guys take over some of the responsibilities. Regardless of the Kimmo will carry on in being ultra reliable on the own zone and a weapon on the visitors end.
Teemu Laakso, Sami Lepistö, Lennart Petrell and Petteri Nokelainen close up the quick review on the Finns on ice. They still have to take some time to prove that they belong to the starting lineup. Let's take a look at their progress little later on the season. I hope all the best for them in the fight for the spotlight.
2011/10/12
From Russia with love
I happened to browse some news, posts and comments on Matt Bradley's alleged radio criticism towards former Washington Capitals teammate Alexander Semin. This study led to more comments on Semin's inconsistent performances, lack of commitment and so forth. This rung a bell in similarity on articles about so many other Russian players. Alexei Kovalev comes to my mind first. Is it really a national characteristic of Russians to pull this kind of spotlight for themselves or is this just some last remains of the good old cold war in the minds of US-centric media?
In regards of Bradley's comments after leaving the team, I believe that's part of being rather young and inexperienced and getting lured into this kind of talk by the interviewer. Stupid, against the players' code of honor and outright bad for karma and career for sure. But somewhat innocent in the end. He'll be hearing about this for a while and will learn to keep his mouth shut on topics like this. Players in general stand for each others like in any team sport, only highlighting the most outrageous behavior of certain individuals. Rest of the yapping remains in the rink and locker rooms.
What comes to Russian star players in the NHL. It seems like forever since the first guys jumped over to play in the States. Since that the Soviet Union has collapsed and borders have opened. KHL has come in to offer an local language alternative. The world has changed a lot. Still, some of the writers, many of the league elderly statesmen, owners, GMs etc. are old school and don't realize that nationality isn't very important these days. It's just a job and a business. Where wouldn't we be outsourcing tasks these days?
So, I'm leaning on the side of prejudice. Guys like Semin and Kovalev have proven to be world class players. You don't score almost a point per game in NHL without extreme talent. Of course these individuals are mostly offensive weapons and save themselves for those tasks instead of grinding out the pucks in the corners or finding lanes to deliver massive checks. They have the softest hands in the league and those skills will go out in a puff of smoke after few broken wrists or separated shoulders. Not to mention the flying speed that can't really take that many torn knee tendons before the career is over. There's different shaped guys for the hard work in all teams and it's hard to put these two types of players in comparison.
Stats tell that regular season favors the guys with offensive skill and speed, but playoffs turn the scales towards hard work and never-die attitude. That shouldn't really be much of a surprise to anyone in the business. It's a long season and everything is on the line in the end. It would be hard to not get the jitters on the final push towards the ultimate reward. Guys are also banged up and tired after 82 games of regular season. There might not be enough left in the tank to pull off some of the fastest spurts or finest moves in the postseason.
If you compare Semin and Kovalev to fellow countrymen Ovechkin and Malkin, what makes a difference in the public attitude? Ovechkin loves the spotlight, he's at home as a hockey celebrity. And he has a nasty edge, some Canadian blood perhaps? Malkin is a shy and silent guy too, but has won the public over with simple talent and undeniable productivity on the rink. Another bad season for him and he'll be in the same doghouse with Semin. Be it injuries or anything else, it's just going to be unfair.
The teams are paying millions to the coaching teams that seem to fail in getting everything out of these star players at times. I wonder how their professionalism is evaluated in those spots. They should be gutsy enough to tell who's going to jump in the box at what times and not whine about it later if they've played 25 minutes some guys who don't seem to have the energy. If it's grind time, don't throw in the artists.
I see another massively productive season for Semin, even playing on the second line behind Ovie and Backström. And Washington will make a big mistake if they let this guy leave instead of talking things through along the season. Get a freakin' interpreter if the kid doesn't speak English.
Kovalev already left when he had enough. He has nothing more to prove in his age and he'll be happy playing out his career in Russia.
I'd like to end this post with an opinion that the NHL would be way less entertaining as a league without the Russian (and other Eastern block) players. The media should realize that and embrace the differences in the playing style instead of judging without looking any deeper.
In regards of Bradley's comments after leaving the team, I believe that's part of being rather young and inexperienced and getting lured into this kind of talk by the interviewer. Stupid, against the players' code of honor and outright bad for karma and career for sure. But somewhat innocent in the end. He'll be hearing about this for a while and will learn to keep his mouth shut on topics like this. Players in general stand for each others like in any team sport, only highlighting the most outrageous behavior of certain individuals. Rest of the yapping remains in the rink and locker rooms.
What comes to Russian star players in the NHL. It seems like forever since the first guys jumped over to play in the States. Since that the Soviet Union has collapsed and borders have opened. KHL has come in to offer an local language alternative. The world has changed a lot. Still, some of the writers, many of the league elderly statesmen, owners, GMs etc. are old school and don't realize that nationality isn't very important these days. It's just a job and a business. Where wouldn't we be outsourcing tasks these days?
So, I'm leaning on the side of prejudice. Guys like Semin and Kovalev have proven to be world class players. You don't score almost a point per game in NHL without extreme talent. Of course these individuals are mostly offensive weapons and save themselves for those tasks instead of grinding out the pucks in the corners or finding lanes to deliver massive checks. They have the softest hands in the league and those skills will go out in a puff of smoke after few broken wrists or separated shoulders. Not to mention the flying speed that can't really take that many torn knee tendons before the career is over. There's different shaped guys for the hard work in all teams and it's hard to put these two types of players in comparison.
Stats tell that regular season favors the guys with offensive skill and speed, but playoffs turn the scales towards hard work and never-die attitude. That shouldn't really be much of a surprise to anyone in the business. It's a long season and everything is on the line in the end. It would be hard to not get the jitters on the final push towards the ultimate reward. Guys are also banged up and tired after 82 games of regular season. There might not be enough left in the tank to pull off some of the fastest spurts or finest moves in the postseason.
If you compare Semin and Kovalev to fellow countrymen Ovechkin and Malkin, what makes a difference in the public attitude? Ovechkin loves the spotlight, he's at home as a hockey celebrity. And he has a nasty edge, some Canadian blood perhaps? Malkin is a shy and silent guy too, but has won the public over with simple talent and undeniable productivity on the rink. Another bad season for him and he'll be in the same doghouse with Semin. Be it injuries or anything else, it's just going to be unfair.
The teams are paying millions to the coaching teams that seem to fail in getting everything out of these star players at times. I wonder how their professionalism is evaluated in those spots. They should be gutsy enough to tell who's going to jump in the box at what times and not whine about it later if they've played 25 minutes some guys who don't seem to have the energy. If it's grind time, don't throw in the artists.
I see another massively productive season for Semin, even playing on the second line behind Ovie and Backström. And Washington will make a big mistake if they let this guy leave instead of talking things through along the season. Get a freakin' interpreter if the kid doesn't speak English.
Kovalev already left when he had enough. He has nothing more to prove in his age and he'll be happy playing out his career in Russia.
I'd like to end this post with an opinion that the NHL would be way less entertaining as a league without the Russian (and other Eastern block) players. The media should realize that and embrace the differences in the playing style instead of judging without looking any deeper.
2011/09/29
Preseason predictions
Okay, a summer of misfortunate incidents in hockey circles is over. The tragedies involving suicides and the Yaroslavl KHL team plane crash will definitely leave their mark in the seasons to come and the whole international hockey community. Lots of questions, not too many answers. I wish all the strength to the closely affected people around the globe!
Now it's time to put in some prediction for the coming season. Preseason is nearing its end and in a week we'll be off with another thrilling season of world's best hockey. I hope again to catch as much of the action as possible. And to post some thoughts along the way over here.
I'll rush through all the teams and summarize their season in a few words. It'll be fun to return to these thoughts in midseason and the end of regular to see how much of it I got right.
Devils: Will follow their long-time worst season with similar results, now the streaks will be more mixed, but there's going to be more in the L-column.
Islanders: Rising as a challenger with rather young core. Way too inconsistent to break through as a playoff team.
Rangers: Spent again big bucks for premioum players. Maybe it's time to reap some dividends and push through to the playoffs. If duo Richards-Gaborik stays healthy, they'll do a lot of damage this season.
Flyers: Mixed their roster up a lot, but still keep going strong and easily in to the playoffs and further.
Penguins: Very strong preseason, and without Crosby. If Sid the Kid returns and stays healthy, the Pens have a strong grip on the cup in the springtime.
Blackhawks: Still weak from the post-cup roster collapse. However, getting stronger and likely in the playoffs later.
Blue Jackets: All time bottom dwellers might pull off a surprise this season. They have really strong first line and more experience and skill than ever. First playoff appearance in the air?
Red Wings: Getting older and older. Still able to pull off solid numbers throughout the season and get in the playoffs. Can't see them having the juice to go far though.
Predators: Very solid team and Rinne will have a massive year in goal. Not the most entertaining team, but definitely in the playoffs for at least couple of rounds.
Blues: Streaky, inconsistent, but hides some potential for upsets. Not likely going all the way to the playoffs anyway.
Bruins: The B's keep on steamrolling this season like the last. They are one of the sure playoff teams and might not want to let the cup go for another year.
Sabres: Threw a lot of money and got some solid players. No superstars, but definitely strong enough to return to the playoff picture this year.
Canadiens: Keep on being too fragile and are bound to collapse sooner or later and miss the playoffs. May pull off a good streak in the early season again, but will run out of steam.
Senators: If not dead last, then second to it. No chance this season either and will likely loose Jason Spezza along the way for someone with deeper pockets. Need a new ownership or something.
Maple Leafs: Continuing its sad march after seasons of bad decisions on the market. Not going to fight for a playoff spot with this team.
Flames: Dropping fast. Have fought through last seasons and fallen just before the playoffs. This season it's clear that they're out around Christmas. Kiprusoff will hate to see his stock value and start count drop along with the team. Would Iginla bail out seems to be the most interesting topic in Calgary this year.
Avalanche: Very young roster, still learning to play together. If everything clicks perfectly they may become a playoff contender. If not, they'll keep on practising for the seasons to come.
Oilers: Similar to Avalanche, but with a long stretch of bottom finishes, they've gathered a fantastic core of young superstars-to-be. They might be ready enough to make it to the playoffs this season already. A fact is that this team is going to be fun to watch day in and out.
Wild: The once boring Wild may return to the playoffs this season. They're very balanced and have one of the biggest offencive pairs in Koivu-Heatley. Look for 50 goals for Dany and 50 assists for Mikko.
Canucks: Still a bit shocked on the finals result, but will recover for another great season. Thay have all the weapons in the offence and very solid defence, finally locked by Roberto Luongo. Hard to beat, and sure to make the playoffs.
Hurricanes: Surpriser role at best. May fight for the last playoff spots again, especially if Eric Staal stays healthy and happy.
Panthers: Not getting any better this season. Some new bright spots here and there, but still far from becoming a playoff team.
Lightning: Lightning's offence will carry on beng in the top of the leaderboards. Stamkos and St.Louis will keep on conjuring the magic. And that all will carry the team to the playoffs again. Might need more toughness on the middle of the pack to make it any further.
Capitals: Lousy preseason results might lead to some pressure from the management. The team is just too talented to not be better. And they will respond by leading the Southeast again very soon. Time to bounce back mr. Ovechkin.
Jets: Supported by the most enthusiastic crowd in the league, the returning Jets will have the "sixth player" through the season. They will need it to make it to the playoffs. Slight chances exist though.
Ducks: Veteran Ducks will carry on for another year and take the team to the playoffs again. They will be too banged up at that point to make it any further though. Great to see Teemu Selänne bring in some more impressive numbers.
Stars: Excellent results in the preseason might not carry over to the regular season. However, they seem to be doing just fine without Brad Richards and might surprise everyone by making it to the playoffs.
Kings: Very strong team and will surely make it to the playoffs this season. Might even fight for the cup if key guys remain in good playing shape. Would be even better if they could settle the negotiations with Drew Doughty. Totally able to handle themselves without him as well.
Coyotes: Have been playing with the idea of making it to the playoffs last couple of seasons. Seem to have very good workmanlike attitude that might take them there. And might go far if they can keep the attitude. If not, they won't make the playoffs either. No skills for fancy stuff.
Sharks: Sure to make it to the playoffs. Very, very strong and talented team and always full of promise. Would this be the year when they make the run all the way to the finals? It's about time, or the team will start falling to pieces.
There, all teams covered. It's easy to pick some favorites but also thrilling to see the younger challengers rise to the new, faster game. It's also going to be very interesting how things get started on the checking department, since last season stirred off the whole headshot debate. It's hard for me to believe we won't have some serious incidents to review again pretty soon. In the preseason it's been all about political correctness and verbal behavior on the rink. Maybe it's time to let that go and let boys be boys without making any major statements out of what is yelled on the ice. Way better idea is to concentrate on keeping the game fair, clean and hard as it's always been.
Bring it on, gentlemen!
Now it's time to put in some prediction for the coming season. Preseason is nearing its end and in a week we'll be off with another thrilling season of world's best hockey. I hope again to catch as much of the action as possible. And to post some thoughts along the way over here.
I'll rush through all the teams and summarize their season in a few words. It'll be fun to return to these thoughts in midseason and the end of regular to see how much of it I got right.
Devils: Will follow their long-time worst season with similar results, now the streaks will be more mixed, but there's going to be more in the L-column.
Islanders: Rising as a challenger with rather young core. Way too inconsistent to break through as a playoff team.
Rangers: Spent again big bucks for premioum players. Maybe it's time to reap some dividends and push through to the playoffs. If duo Richards-Gaborik stays healthy, they'll do a lot of damage this season.
Flyers: Mixed their roster up a lot, but still keep going strong and easily in to the playoffs and further.
Penguins: Very strong preseason, and without Crosby. If Sid the Kid returns and stays healthy, the Pens have a strong grip on the cup in the springtime.
Blackhawks: Still weak from the post-cup roster collapse. However, getting stronger and likely in the playoffs later.
Blue Jackets: All time bottom dwellers might pull off a surprise this season. They have really strong first line and more experience and skill than ever. First playoff appearance in the air?
Red Wings: Getting older and older. Still able to pull off solid numbers throughout the season and get in the playoffs. Can't see them having the juice to go far though.
Predators: Very solid team and Rinne will have a massive year in goal. Not the most entertaining team, but definitely in the playoffs for at least couple of rounds.
Blues: Streaky, inconsistent, but hides some potential for upsets. Not likely going all the way to the playoffs anyway.
Bruins: The B's keep on steamrolling this season like the last. They are one of the sure playoff teams and might not want to let the cup go for another year.
Sabres: Threw a lot of money and got some solid players. No superstars, but definitely strong enough to return to the playoff picture this year.
Canadiens: Keep on being too fragile and are bound to collapse sooner or later and miss the playoffs. May pull off a good streak in the early season again, but will run out of steam.
Senators: If not dead last, then second to it. No chance this season either and will likely loose Jason Spezza along the way for someone with deeper pockets. Need a new ownership or something.
Maple Leafs: Continuing its sad march after seasons of bad decisions on the market. Not going to fight for a playoff spot with this team.
Flames: Dropping fast. Have fought through last seasons and fallen just before the playoffs. This season it's clear that they're out around Christmas. Kiprusoff will hate to see his stock value and start count drop along with the team. Would Iginla bail out seems to be the most interesting topic in Calgary this year.
Avalanche: Very young roster, still learning to play together. If everything clicks perfectly they may become a playoff contender. If not, they'll keep on practising for the seasons to come.
Oilers: Similar to Avalanche, but with a long stretch of bottom finishes, they've gathered a fantastic core of young superstars-to-be. They might be ready enough to make it to the playoffs this season already. A fact is that this team is going to be fun to watch day in and out.
Wild: The once boring Wild may return to the playoffs this season. They're very balanced and have one of the biggest offencive pairs in Koivu-Heatley. Look for 50 goals for Dany and 50 assists for Mikko.
Canucks: Still a bit shocked on the finals result, but will recover for another great season. Thay have all the weapons in the offence and very solid defence, finally locked by Roberto Luongo. Hard to beat, and sure to make the playoffs.
Hurricanes: Surpriser role at best. May fight for the last playoff spots again, especially if Eric Staal stays healthy and happy.
Panthers: Not getting any better this season. Some new bright spots here and there, but still far from becoming a playoff team.
Lightning: Lightning's offence will carry on beng in the top of the leaderboards. Stamkos and St.Louis will keep on conjuring the magic. And that all will carry the team to the playoffs again. Might need more toughness on the middle of the pack to make it any further.
Capitals: Lousy preseason results might lead to some pressure from the management. The team is just too talented to not be better. And they will respond by leading the Southeast again very soon. Time to bounce back mr. Ovechkin.
Jets: Supported by the most enthusiastic crowd in the league, the returning Jets will have the "sixth player" through the season. They will need it to make it to the playoffs. Slight chances exist though.
Ducks: Veteran Ducks will carry on for another year and take the team to the playoffs again. They will be too banged up at that point to make it any further though. Great to see Teemu Selänne bring in some more impressive numbers.
Stars: Excellent results in the preseason might not carry over to the regular season. However, they seem to be doing just fine without Brad Richards and might surprise everyone by making it to the playoffs.
Kings: Very strong team and will surely make it to the playoffs this season. Might even fight for the cup if key guys remain in good playing shape. Would be even better if they could settle the negotiations with Drew Doughty. Totally able to handle themselves without him as well.
Coyotes: Have been playing with the idea of making it to the playoffs last couple of seasons. Seem to have very good workmanlike attitude that might take them there. And might go far if they can keep the attitude. If not, they won't make the playoffs either. No skills for fancy stuff.
Sharks: Sure to make it to the playoffs. Very, very strong and talented team and always full of promise. Would this be the year when they make the run all the way to the finals? It's about time, or the team will start falling to pieces.
There, all teams covered. It's easy to pick some favorites but also thrilling to see the younger challengers rise to the new, faster game. It's also going to be very interesting how things get started on the checking department, since last season stirred off the whole headshot debate. It's hard for me to believe we won't have some serious incidents to review again pretty soon. In the preseason it's been all about political correctness and verbal behavior on the rink. Maybe it's time to let that go and let boys be boys without making any major statements out of what is yelled on the ice. Way better idea is to concentrate on keeping the game fair, clean and hard as it's always been.
Bring it on, gentlemen!
2011/08/15
The good, the bad, and the ugly - Trades of summer 2011
Philly got its share of attention on my last post. Now it's time to focus on the other big deals that have been pulled off this summer. Not in any particular order, I just dug those out from some listing in the net.
Zach Parise was tagged for one more year in the Devils uniform. Seems like after last season he's pretty much through with the team and just wanted to give one more year out of common courtesy before jumping to a more modern team. He's a brilliant young talent and will likely thrive in a more attach oriented and balanced team. New Jersey may bounce back with the big guns blazing, but will fall short of anything spectacular. Solid season in the pipeline for Parise, but if the Devils don't improve, he'll see a decline in his production too.
Brent Burns signed for five years in sunny San Jose. He'll be the backbone of the Sharks team for the coming years. A all star level defenceman with great playmaking skills and proper toughness around the net is definitely a good building block to carry on. San Jose will be even more dangerous with Burns on the defence and may even pull the best effort of the franchise history if the offense keeps on producing like in the past.
Keith Yandle took pretty similar approach as Burns before, agreeing on a five year contract on the Coyotes. The desert dogs will not be cup contenders in the coming years, if ever. It's actually more likely that Yandle will end this contract on a franchise with another name, or location, or both. If someone sorts out the financials, the hockey in Arizona will come to its end in the coming years. Yandle was phenomenal last season on the offensive end and finished close to the top of production rankings for defencemen. His skills on the own end are not as good as e.g. Burns', but he'll keep on improving and being the defensive leader of the young Coyotes' team.
New York Rangers managed to keep their heart and soul in Ryan Callahan and Brandon Dubinsky. On top of that they reeled in the big fish in Brad Richards to spark up the finesse of team's offense. Callahan and Dubinsky keep on pounding gritty goals and frustrating the opposition's top lines. Richards was brought in to create some magic. Admittedly, it was a fantastic sales position for Richards, and Rangers are taking somewhat of a risk with a massive contract, but it will be thrilling to see what he can bring the Big Apple. Given the proper supporting cast, Brad Richars can pump the Rangers back to being a playoff team.
Steven Stamkos got basically anything he asked after last season's efforts. This guy has potential to overtake even Crosby and Ovechkin in raw and powerful productivity. If he can carry on playing with Marty St. Louis, the duo will keep on embarassing opposing goalies throughout the coming season. Stamkos may have ran out of gas a bit in the end of last season, but he's gained massive experience from it and will surely return even more dangerous. A must keep for Tampa for numerous reasons, the least not being success and fanbase.
St. Louis Blues took an interesting angle in acquiring graybeards Jason Arnott and Jamie Langenbrunner for one more year. These two have had some ups and downs on the latter part of their careers, depending on the roles they've been put in the teams they've played for. Both of the men have very good seasons on their resume and certainly have proven themselves as high caliber NHLers. It only remains to be seen where will they land in the youthful, but highly inconsistent Blues. Given the right role and embracing it might prove this move to be brilliant in letting the veterans pull off another solid season while rubbing some experienced calmness and rationality to the younger corps. If not, these guys will not hit the headlines too often, just like the rest of the team in St. Louis.
One of the most exiting trades this offseason was San Jose and Minnesota swapping Dany Heatley and Martin Havlat. It's a swap of two incredibly talented, but a bit unbalanced players. Heatley just hasn't been the same since the unfortunate car accident in the past and Havlat's inconsistency is it the top of the league. With different weapons in Heatley's deadly shot and Havlat's incredible speed and moves it is more than just a swap of jerseys on the backs of guys. As highly paid top line forwards, both demand attention and adjustment of the rest of the line and team to extract maximum value on the palyers' talents. If done properly I can already see this being a really good trade for both. San Jose has some younger snipers following Heatley's footsteps and ready to fill up the gap in shots on goal. The obvious question is how many breakaways will Joe Thornton set up for Mr. Havlat this season? My guess is in the three digits. If Havlat stays healthy, he could well return in the top of the scoring race like few years back. On the Minnesota end of the rink I can easily see Heatley's linemates, led by Mikko Koivu, digging in the offensive end corners to just ship the puck for a one-timer for Dany-boy and personal notch on the assists column. Minnesota top line will be a threat to anyone. The question remains, who else is there in the team?
Finally, the most interesting goalie move of the offseason. Thomas Vokoun was given the final chance to take a shot at being a Stanley Cup winner in the high expectation Washington Capitals. He just has to take a firm grip on the number one goalie spot on the team, show why his career stats are simply brilliant after playing for low end team, and keep up the pace in the unfamiliar territory of playoffs. Not the easiest task in a team that is expected to keep on winning, but doable with Vokoun's undeniable talent. In the worst case it's still going to be good for Washington to have a veteran goaltender putting some pressure on the young keepers and keeping them sharp.
Very interesting summer indeed. I'm anxious to see how the games start and what tracks these biggest movers and shakers take. A fresh new NHL season up ahead!
Zach Parise was tagged for one more year in the Devils uniform. Seems like after last season he's pretty much through with the team and just wanted to give one more year out of common courtesy before jumping to a more modern team. He's a brilliant young talent and will likely thrive in a more attach oriented and balanced team. New Jersey may bounce back with the big guns blazing, but will fall short of anything spectacular. Solid season in the pipeline for Parise, but if the Devils don't improve, he'll see a decline in his production too.
Brent Burns signed for five years in sunny San Jose. He'll be the backbone of the Sharks team for the coming years. A all star level defenceman with great playmaking skills and proper toughness around the net is definitely a good building block to carry on. San Jose will be even more dangerous with Burns on the defence and may even pull the best effort of the franchise history if the offense keeps on producing like in the past.
Keith Yandle took pretty similar approach as Burns before, agreeing on a five year contract on the Coyotes. The desert dogs will not be cup contenders in the coming years, if ever. It's actually more likely that Yandle will end this contract on a franchise with another name, or location, or both. If someone sorts out the financials, the hockey in Arizona will come to its end in the coming years. Yandle was phenomenal last season on the offensive end and finished close to the top of production rankings for defencemen. His skills on the own end are not as good as e.g. Burns', but he'll keep on improving and being the defensive leader of the young Coyotes' team.
New York Rangers managed to keep their heart and soul in Ryan Callahan and Brandon Dubinsky. On top of that they reeled in the big fish in Brad Richards to spark up the finesse of team's offense. Callahan and Dubinsky keep on pounding gritty goals and frustrating the opposition's top lines. Richards was brought in to create some magic. Admittedly, it was a fantastic sales position for Richards, and Rangers are taking somewhat of a risk with a massive contract, but it will be thrilling to see what he can bring the Big Apple. Given the proper supporting cast, Brad Richars can pump the Rangers back to being a playoff team.
Steven Stamkos got basically anything he asked after last season's efforts. This guy has potential to overtake even Crosby and Ovechkin in raw and powerful productivity. If he can carry on playing with Marty St. Louis, the duo will keep on embarassing opposing goalies throughout the coming season. Stamkos may have ran out of gas a bit in the end of last season, but he's gained massive experience from it and will surely return even more dangerous. A must keep for Tampa for numerous reasons, the least not being success and fanbase.
St. Louis Blues took an interesting angle in acquiring graybeards Jason Arnott and Jamie Langenbrunner for one more year. These two have had some ups and downs on the latter part of their careers, depending on the roles they've been put in the teams they've played for. Both of the men have very good seasons on their resume and certainly have proven themselves as high caliber NHLers. It only remains to be seen where will they land in the youthful, but highly inconsistent Blues. Given the right role and embracing it might prove this move to be brilliant in letting the veterans pull off another solid season while rubbing some experienced calmness and rationality to the younger corps. If not, these guys will not hit the headlines too often, just like the rest of the team in St. Louis.
One of the most exiting trades this offseason was San Jose and Minnesota swapping Dany Heatley and Martin Havlat. It's a swap of two incredibly talented, but a bit unbalanced players. Heatley just hasn't been the same since the unfortunate car accident in the past and Havlat's inconsistency is it the top of the league. With different weapons in Heatley's deadly shot and Havlat's incredible speed and moves it is more than just a swap of jerseys on the backs of guys. As highly paid top line forwards, both demand attention and adjustment of the rest of the line and team to extract maximum value on the palyers' talents. If done properly I can already see this being a really good trade for both. San Jose has some younger snipers following Heatley's footsteps and ready to fill up the gap in shots on goal. The obvious question is how many breakaways will Joe Thornton set up for Mr. Havlat this season? My guess is in the three digits. If Havlat stays healthy, he could well return in the top of the scoring race like few years back. On the Minnesota end of the rink I can easily see Heatley's linemates, led by Mikko Koivu, digging in the offensive end corners to just ship the puck for a one-timer for Dany-boy and personal notch on the assists column. Minnesota top line will be a threat to anyone. The question remains, who else is there in the team?
Finally, the most interesting goalie move of the offseason. Thomas Vokoun was given the final chance to take a shot at being a Stanley Cup winner in the high expectation Washington Capitals. He just has to take a firm grip on the number one goalie spot on the team, show why his career stats are simply brilliant after playing for low end team, and keep up the pace in the unfamiliar territory of playoffs. Not the easiest task in a team that is expected to keep on winning, but doable with Vokoun's undeniable talent. In the worst case it's still going to be good for Washington to have a veteran goaltender putting some pressure on the young keepers and keeping them sharp.
Very interesting summer indeed. I'm anxious to see how the games start and what tracks these biggest movers and shakers take. A fresh new NHL season up ahead!
2011/08/12
Shuffle up in Philly
Trade market is a topic that may result in rather long posts. I'll start with something that comes to my mind right away.
It sure has been a busy summer on the trade market. Lots of big names have landed on new teams, some surprisingly, some likely expecting or even wanting to get traded. Anyhow, this really injects some needed surprise factor on the team's overall success rate in the beginning of the next season. Gray hairs for owners, good fun for fans and gamblers.
Let's focus on the Philadelphia Flyers. They drew the biggest attention to themselves with a major decision in letting go many of their top guns from the last few seasons. Let's take a closer look on the guys who left and the ones that came in to fill in the gaps.
Mike Richards, for starters, was the team captain, fan favourite and the poster boy for the whole franchise, if not sometimes for the whole NHL. His style of hard nosed but efficient play was feared and followed alike. Sometimes it seemed even that he had some free passes on the NHL disciplinary actions for not getting punished for very hard hits with disturbing results. Well, he was one of the guys to start the discussion that ended up in the current blind side hits rule. Whatever that means in practice.. Anyway, teams don't often let these caliber guys go away. There's not many who could fill up his role in the whole sport. Beats me, maybe he was too greedy, unhappy or didn't get along with the management. Anyway, LA is the massive winner in this trade. It's going to be awesome to see how soon he finds a line in LA to deliver the goods.
Jeff Carter got shipped to Columbus. Well, not exactly what a guy with high and growing rating in the league wants to see. No matter what he says. Playing for half empty arenas in a non-competitive team is just bad PR. On the positive side, he'll get to play just as much as he wants as the ultimate superstar in the team. Winner again, Columbus, hands down. Carter's true skills will now be seen with mediocre linemates. I wouldn't expect 40 goals this season..
Ville Leino has hit the high wave on his career just on the right spot and that led Buffalo Sabres to lock him in for a long term, high salary contract. It's good to see Ville with a new chance to prove himself as a first line NHL forward. As a fellow Finn I hope he succeeds. Not too many high profile forwards from Finland anymore in the league. However, it's a gamble for the Sabres, like most of their moves this summer. Flyers should have tried to keep Leino, but likely couldn't match the offer he got.
The newcomers then. Bryzgalov, with a foolish contract for the eternity, forces the Flyers to commit to one goalie for bettor or worse. He did fantastic job in Phoenix, so it's not at all unlikely that he'd be able to plug the goals against column for good. Voracek, Simmonds and Talbot are work horses for second to fourth lines. Nothing spectacular, but likely worth their salary when played in right roles. Lilja is a lower minute defenceman in Philly, not a difference maker. The rookies, including Brayden Schenn, are the unknown. Maybe there's a new star in the making, maybe these guys will never secure a spot in the starting lineup, who knows.
Last but definitely not least is the grand old maestro, Jaromir Jagr. Currently gray bearded, but still extremely dangerous in the offensive zone. It's absolutely thrilling to see him get adjusted in today's NHL. With proper linemates he might well pull off another stellar season. The wildest predictions put him in the fight for the scoring title. That's a bit though to believe, but I could well believe in a bit less than a point per game season. Jagr, in his prime, has been one of the best to play the game ever. He's a no brainer to the Hall of Fame after he retires no matter how he does this season. I had a chance to follow his play in the last year's world championships and he didn't fall short to any of the younger stars in Czech lineup. In the Flyers he might be able to take the role of the living legend, leading younger guns to great things with his example. Obviously, I've always liked his style of play. Massive skills in one of the strongest packages in the game, combined with a world class eye for the play. I sincerely hope he still has the gas in the tank to compete on the ultimate top of this sport. Good catch form the Flyers indeed, if for nothing else than getting a truckload of interest directed in their games.
All in all, Philly really shook up its roster. On the first look it got way worse, but looking a bit further down the line, this may provide some stability to the franchise that likely expected to take it all with the lineup from the past couple of years. They ended up falling just short, but definitely showing that the "Rangers approach", of gathering the cream of players without paying too much attention to paychecks, can succeed with the right coordination.
I'll continue with another rambling post on some other trades this offseason later.
It sure has been a busy summer on the trade market. Lots of big names have landed on new teams, some surprisingly, some likely expecting or even wanting to get traded. Anyhow, this really injects some needed surprise factor on the team's overall success rate in the beginning of the next season. Gray hairs for owners, good fun for fans and gamblers.
Let's focus on the Philadelphia Flyers. They drew the biggest attention to themselves with a major decision in letting go many of their top guns from the last few seasons. Let's take a closer look on the guys who left and the ones that came in to fill in the gaps.
Mike Richards, for starters, was the team captain, fan favourite and the poster boy for the whole franchise, if not sometimes for the whole NHL. His style of hard nosed but efficient play was feared and followed alike. Sometimes it seemed even that he had some free passes on the NHL disciplinary actions for not getting punished for very hard hits with disturbing results. Well, he was one of the guys to start the discussion that ended up in the current blind side hits rule. Whatever that means in practice.. Anyway, teams don't often let these caliber guys go away. There's not many who could fill up his role in the whole sport. Beats me, maybe he was too greedy, unhappy or didn't get along with the management. Anyway, LA is the massive winner in this trade. It's going to be awesome to see how soon he finds a line in LA to deliver the goods.
Jeff Carter got shipped to Columbus. Well, not exactly what a guy with high and growing rating in the league wants to see. No matter what he says. Playing for half empty arenas in a non-competitive team is just bad PR. On the positive side, he'll get to play just as much as he wants as the ultimate superstar in the team. Winner again, Columbus, hands down. Carter's true skills will now be seen with mediocre linemates. I wouldn't expect 40 goals this season..
Ville Leino has hit the high wave on his career just on the right spot and that led Buffalo Sabres to lock him in for a long term, high salary contract. It's good to see Ville with a new chance to prove himself as a first line NHL forward. As a fellow Finn I hope he succeeds. Not too many high profile forwards from Finland anymore in the league. However, it's a gamble for the Sabres, like most of their moves this summer. Flyers should have tried to keep Leino, but likely couldn't match the offer he got.
The newcomers then. Bryzgalov, with a foolish contract for the eternity, forces the Flyers to commit to one goalie for bettor or worse. He did fantastic job in Phoenix, so it's not at all unlikely that he'd be able to plug the goals against column for good. Voracek, Simmonds and Talbot are work horses for second to fourth lines. Nothing spectacular, but likely worth their salary when played in right roles. Lilja is a lower minute defenceman in Philly, not a difference maker. The rookies, including Brayden Schenn, are the unknown. Maybe there's a new star in the making, maybe these guys will never secure a spot in the starting lineup, who knows.
Last but definitely not least is the grand old maestro, Jaromir Jagr. Currently gray bearded, but still extremely dangerous in the offensive zone. It's absolutely thrilling to see him get adjusted in today's NHL. With proper linemates he might well pull off another stellar season. The wildest predictions put him in the fight for the scoring title. That's a bit though to believe, but I could well believe in a bit less than a point per game season. Jagr, in his prime, has been one of the best to play the game ever. He's a no brainer to the Hall of Fame after he retires no matter how he does this season. I had a chance to follow his play in the last year's world championships and he didn't fall short to any of the younger stars in Czech lineup. In the Flyers he might be able to take the role of the living legend, leading younger guns to great things with his example. Obviously, I've always liked his style of play. Massive skills in one of the strongest packages in the game, combined with a world class eye for the play. I sincerely hope he still has the gas in the tank to compete on the ultimate top of this sport. Good catch form the Flyers indeed, if for nothing else than getting a truckload of interest directed in their games.
All in all, Philly really shook up its roster. On the first look it got way worse, but looking a bit further down the line, this may provide some stability to the franchise that likely expected to take it all with the lineup from the past couple of years. They ended up falling just short, but definitely showing that the "Rangers approach", of gathering the cream of players without paying too much attention to paychecks, can succeed with the right coordination.
I'll continue with another rambling post on some other trades this offseason later.
2011/08/11
Cup retrospective and setting the sight for the future
Okay, Boston took the cup, Vancouver was ablaze on the riots after disappointed fans vented their frustration on the streets. This just says something about the emotion tied to this fantastic game. Not that the rioting wouldn't have been completely and utterly stupid and the worst pr for the sport, though..
Boston just had a little something more. Thomas outplayed Luongo, especially on the mental side. Media did its best in shaking Luongo's balance. Sedins came up short while Boston's big guys just responded as expected. It took all seven games but in the end Boston put a big exclamation mark on the board next to the convincing 4-0 victory. Canada just has to wait some more for the next cup. Vancouver has had some great runs and has built a very solid team, maybe they're up for the challenge in the coming years.
It's a bit early for predictions on the next season, but let's give it a playful go. Lots of key players have changed teams, which makes the dynamics of the coming season very interesting. Who'll be able to rise to superstardom in their new teams and who will be just waste of money? What about the teams that have been able to build a solid foundation in the past years, improving year by year with more experience?
Just following the first thoughts here, I'd list Vancouver, Chicago, Boston, San Jose and Washington definitely in the mix of claiming the cup in the end. Pittsburgh's success lies on the shoulders of Sidney Crosby. If he's been able to recover from the nagging concussion and avoids further issues next season, th Penguins will be in there for the fight. Philly, LA, Tampa, Anaheim and Detroit are ready for a surpsise run, even all the way to the end. Philly was shaken up on the roster a lot, LA has grown up, Tampa might pull it off with "just one line", Anaheim has tons of talent up front and Detroit, as a graybearded gentleman, might just find some magic out of sheer experience.
Some new challengers may also rise for the fight. It'll be great to see how Winnipeg Jets come back to the NHL. Their supporters will definitely be the legendary "sixth man" out there, pushing the rather light team forward with undonctional love. NY Rangers have again put some money on the table and expect Brad Richards to be the man carrying them over to the playoffs and further. If it all clicks together, the consistent underachiever might live to its potential. Also Nashville, against all odds, might carry on being the thorn on the sides of the more flashy teams. Just playing their blue collar, no nonsense, defence first style and grinding away the needed victories.
It's hard to see the bottom of the pack of last seasons producing any massive improvements this season either. Edmonton Oilers are still too young, like Colorado Avalanche. Calgary Flames just keep on falling, Columbus hasn't got enough talent on any level, Florida stays confused and NY Islanders just can't get out of the shadow of the big brother on the Manhattan island.
Out of the unmentioned, the black horse is New Jersey Devils. Constantly on the top of the pack for the last decade, falling miserably on the bottom last season. How will they respond lies still a lot on the shoulders of Kovalchuk and Brodeur.
All in all, it's a great season to wait for. Let's analyze some more when the leaves turn yellow and red.
Boston just had a little something more. Thomas outplayed Luongo, especially on the mental side. Media did its best in shaking Luongo's balance. Sedins came up short while Boston's big guys just responded as expected. It took all seven games but in the end Boston put a big exclamation mark on the board next to the convincing 4-0 victory. Canada just has to wait some more for the next cup. Vancouver has had some great runs and has built a very solid team, maybe they're up for the challenge in the coming years.
It's a bit early for predictions on the next season, but let's give it a playful go. Lots of key players have changed teams, which makes the dynamics of the coming season very interesting. Who'll be able to rise to superstardom in their new teams and who will be just waste of money? What about the teams that have been able to build a solid foundation in the past years, improving year by year with more experience?
Just following the first thoughts here, I'd list Vancouver, Chicago, Boston, San Jose and Washington definitely in the mix of claiming the cup in the end. Pittsburgh's success lies on the shoulders of Sidney Crosby. If he's been able to recover from the nagging concussion and avoids further issues next season, th Penguins will be in there for the fight. Philly, LA, Tampa, Anaheim and Detroit are ready for a surpsise run, even all the way to the end. Philly was shaken up on the roster a lot, LA has grown up, Tampa might pull it off with "just one line", Anaheim has tons of talent up front and Detroit, as a graybearded gentleman, might just find some magic out of sheer experience.
Some new challengers may also rise for the fight. It'll be great to see how Winnipeg Jets come back to the NHL. Their supporters will definitely be the legendary "sixth man" out there, pushing the rather light team forward with undonctional love. NY Rangers have again put some money on the table and expect Brad Richards to be the man carrying them over to the playoffs and further. If it all clicks together, the consistent underachiever might live to its potential. Also Nashville, against all odds, might carry on being the thorn on the sides of the more flashy teams. Just playing their blue collar, no nonsense, defence first style and grinding away the needed victories.
It's hard to see the bottom of the pack of last seasons producing any massive improvements this season either. Edmonton Oilers are still too young, like Colorado Avalanche. Calgary Flames just keep on falling, Columbus hasn't got enough talent on any level, Florida stays confused and NY Islanders just can't get out of the shadow of the big brother on the Manhattan island.
Out of the unmentioned, the black horse is New Jersey Devils. Constantly on the top of the pack for the last decade, falling miserably on the bottom last season. How will they respond lies still a lot on the shoulders of Kovalchuk and Brodeur.
All in all, it's a great season to wait for. Let's analyze some more when the leaves turn yellow and red.
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