Let's put the hockey hunch to grind in some money. The local betting office posts the ratios for win, loss and a regulation tie. And since it all seems so clear in the ways of the league, it's about time to do a reality check of sorts. I'll just pick up a few games that are sure, easy money and another bunch of a bit longer shots but bigger potential payout. Five bucks each. Short analysis for each pair and a remorseful recap in the morning to close up the post. Don't worry, I won't tamper my original estimates and try to appear smarter than I am. Let's face it, if it would be this easy, it wouldn't be available for the common audience. Let's go then!
Sure bets, absolutely cannot go wrong with these, right?
NYI-PHI: Well, Philly takes this easily. They're bigger, meaner, stronger and have loads of more talent throughout the roster. Islanders still wonder what hit them on Monday, something black and yellow and #87, and forget to play the game. Returns 1,95:1, ka-ching.
PIT-STL: Crosby honeymoon is on and St. Louis is not the team to challenge that. Sid the Kid will deposit a few more points and the supporting cast wants to prove they're right on par with the wonder boy. A night to forget for coach Hitchcock's band. Another multiplier of 1,75:1 for my bucks.
BUF-BOS: The Sabres are very similar to the Bruins, just worse on every aspect at the moment. The teams play similar style of hard working, evenly balanced lines. Thomas outduels Enroth easily and Boston's boys just walk over their counterparts for the victory #10 in the current hot streak. Finalizes my sure money bet with complimentary 2,20:1.
I'll bring home a sweet pot of €37,50 for an investment of $5,00. Like taking candy from a kid.
Then the trickier bet. Not that this is too difficult either, but there's a remote chance that someone somewhere along the line screws up my moneymaker.
WAS-WPG: Boudreau's big guns are soon all on the shelf with the new style of boring, non-scoring game plan. Today they give this style the final try and get crushed by the inconsistent, but capable-when-given-the-opportunity, Jets. For the next game Bruce gives up on the plan for the playoff grind and lets the two Alexes play like they like. Then it'll be very difficult to say what will happen on the ice. This sleeper starts my bigger cash-in with a whopper 3,55:1.
NJ-CLB: The Blue Jackets seem to have found some groove now that they can just play for fun for the rest of the season. The Devils are a perfect opponent for that kind of approach, being the gloomy, play-the-gameplan, uninnovative team that they are. Carter puts in a pair and Nash complements with two of his own. Curtis Sanford wants to prove he can be the long lost number one netminder and who would be better opposing goalie to take for the comparison than the best ever to stand between the pipes, Martin Brodeur. Jackets' third in a row multiplies my dough by 3,45:1.
MIN-NAS: These teams will play another very low scoring game. Minnesota finds itself on top of the league, but absolutely cannot score. Nashville had major difficulties against the young Oilers' squad and need to prove that they're actually way better. Pekka Rinne will shut the door after being benched after the first on Tuesday and the team will play much more solid game today. However, they're against the ultra defensive Wild who can throw either goalie out there and keep the score low. As much as I hate to bet on ties, this sure looks like one. Hell, we might be looking at a 0-0 in the end. The sleepy effort will not match the money invested in tickets, but will finish my triple with a sweet 3,65:1 cherry on top.
My second crumpled note of five euros will explode to a highly satisfying payout of €223,50 in the end of the day.
-- end of evening brag.
-- beginning of morning whine.
Okay, this got rather ridiculous. I was expecting that I can somehow explain myself out of a slight deviation from the original guess, but the reality requires a bit more. I outright busted on the bets in the end. No need to consider a new career here, yet.
Sure picks, right? Philly won the Islanders, but barely and only in overtime. So that ended in a tie on the betting results. Sid the Kid fell short and somehow the Blues ended up taking the game. Again in the overtime, so another tie. And Boston Bruins then? They got the victory, but only with the slightest of margins and after a third period rally. Another tie in regulation and the victory only in the overtime. Three out of three wrong on the sure picks. What a way to start.
Well, after that it's pretty obvious that the higher degree of analysis didn't go much better. The Capitals did eventually beat the Jets, again on the overtime. Not an easy victory, but not the result I picked either. The Blue Jackets did have the moral victory in totally dominating the game against the Devils. However, it was Martin Brodeur, who stole the show, not Curtis Sanford. A regulation tie again and shootout victory to New Jersey. Finally, I can end this disastrous recap of my prophetic abilities on a regulation victory. It was close as I predicted, but Minnesota Wild ended up scoring one more than the Nashville Predators. I need to point my finger at Pekka Rinne on this one, the third and decisive goal was rather embarassing. Solid three out of three wrong here too.
This was a fun excercise, even though the results were downright awful. Maybe I need to get another crystal ball and give it a try somewhere in the future. Can't really go much worse than this, right? With so many regulation ties this night, I'd bet (huh!?) that very few got their picks right. The betting offices were the big winners on this round.
2011/11/23
2011/11/21
Funky stats
There's enough games under everyone's belt to take a deeper look on the statistics so far. Not looking at the obvious ones, everyone can see those, but trying to peek behind the scenes and point out some oddities. Somewhat random, but if you're in, strangely interesting.
Disappearance of Alex Ovechkin. The guy gets paid 100k a game, has proven to be one of the unique talents in the league, but now lingers somewhere in mediocrity. 14 points in 18 games is fine for most, but less than expected from Ovie. The troubling fact is his -6 rating. That's the worst in the whole team! And the team is way over .500 and +2 on goals. What has Alex been doing? Not shooting is one thing. In the previous seasons he's been blasting away on the top of the league stats. Now, barely in top20. Defending, like coach Boudreau claims? Half of the hits than the league's biggest bruisers, three blocked shots. Doesn't look like much. He's playing 3-5 minutes less than in the previous years, maybe due to less than expected production. The bottom line seems to be that mr. Ovechkin is either injured or just not motivated enough. Both are bad for Washington, but later might be harder to fix.
The curse of Eric Staal. Staal has been among the top forwards of this league for several years. He's proven to be a great captain and a hard worker. But now he and his team are in a slump to remember. Leading the league unchallenged in -18. Shooting second most in the league with 5% accuracy. 8 points in 20 games, half of them in powerplay. Talk about squeezing the stick. Big Eric must snap out of this and carry the Hurricanes on his back again, if they have any dreams of the playoffs.
Teen-aged and fearless. Have you noticed a kid called Gabriel Landeskog in Colorado Avalanche? Well, if not, please look for the number #92 in the future. This Swedish rookie is in top20 of the league in shots fired and hits delivered. And was just promoted to play in the top line. Must be hard to miss. It's great to see the rookies of today playing just like the big boys. No fear, no bowing, and ready to challenge. Edmonton's Ryan Nugent-Hopkins just posted 5 assists the other day. Wonder how many rookies have had that many on a game in the history of this sport? Well a guy named Gretzky had 7 back in the day, but Nugent-Hopkins likely made it to the top 5. Coincidentally, that heroic effort also puts Ryan on par with slightly older, but yet ever promising forward from the Ducks, Teemu Selänne. It'll be a fun race between guys aged 18 and 41 for the rest of the season. Place your bets!
Grabbing the momentum in the circle. Chicago's Jonathan Toews leads the league in faceoffs taken and has the biggest win percentage of the active centers on the paint at whopping 62,4%. That sure brings an extra edge to the game when you can grab almost two out of three to your linemates. And the linemates in particular are called Kane and Hossa, which doesn't hurt either. On the other end of the spectrum we have the polite Czech, Patrik Elias, from the Devils, who takes only a modest share of 42,4% of the many faceoffs he faces. I wonder, could the wingers do much worse there?
The Suter-Weber wall. Among the Nashville Predators' hot topics is how to keep their top defencive pair of Ryan Suter and Shea Weber. That might prove to be a bit tricky, but that shouldn't keep the team from enjoying the ride these two defensive monsters bring. They have the biggest plus minus ratings in the league, they stand in the top5 in d-man scoring and just seem to do everything right at the moment. I'd hate to play as a visiting forward in Nashville when paired agains these two. Tough and frustrating in the offensive zone, outright scary in the defensive zone diving in front of Weber's cannon.
Speaking of defensemen, Colorado's ever promising Erik Johnson must be hating the stats charts. He just hit 50 shots, leading the league in attempts in vain. Zero goals, one assist on even strength (8 more on powerplay though) and a miserable -12 rating. Can't really say that he's fulfilled the expectations yet. Maybe he should call up Detroit's colleagues Lidström and Kronwall for some consulting. They've both let go about as many shots and are looking at 6 goals apiece. Not to mention the positive ratings in plus minus column.
Well, that was the take today. I'll be drilling more some other time. Hope you enjoy!
Disappearance of Alex Ovechkin. The guy gets paid 100k a game, has proven to be one of the unique talents in the league, but now lingers somewhere in mediocrity. 14 points in 18 games is fine for most, but less than expected from Ovie. The troubling fact is his -6 rating. That's the worst in the whole team! And the team is way over .500 and +2 on goals. What has Alex been doing? Not shooting is one thing. In the previous seasons he's been blasting away on the top of the league stats. Now, barely in top20. Defending, like coach Boudreau claims? Half of the hits than the league's biggest bruisers, three blocked shots. Doesn't look like much. He's playing 3-5 minutes less than in the previous years, maybe due to less than expected production. The bottom line seems to be that mr. Ovechkin is either injured or just not motivated enough. Both are bad for Washington, but later might be harder to fix.
The curse of Eric Staal. Staal has been among the top forwards of this league for several years. He's proven to be a great captain and a hard worker. But now he and his team are in a slump to remember. Leading the league unchallenged in -18. Shooting second most in the league with 5% accuracy. 8 points in 20 games, half of them in powerplay. Talk about squeezing the stick. Big Eric must snap out of this and carry the Hurricanes on his back again, if they have any dreams of the playoffs.
Teen-aged and fearless. Have you noticed a kid called Gabriel Landeskog in Colorado Avalanche? Well, if not, please look for the number #92 in the future. This Swedish rookie is in top20 of the league in shots fired and hits delivered. And was just promoted to play in the top line. Must be hard to miss. It's great to see the rookies of today playing just like the big boys. No fear, no bowing, and ready to challenge. Edmonton's Ryan Nugent-Hopkins just posted 5 assists the other day. Wonder how many rookies have had that many on a game in the history of this sport? Well a guy named Gretzky had 7 back in the day, but Nugent-Hopkins likely made it to the top 5. Coincidentally, that heroic effort also puts Ryan on par with slightly older, but yet ever promising forward from the Ducks, Teemu Selänne. It'll be a fun race between guys aged 18 and 41 for the rest of the season. Place your bets!
Grabbing the momentum in the circle. Chicago's Jonathan Toews leads the league in faceoffs taken and has the biggest win percentage of the active centers on the paint at whopping 62,4%. That sure brings an extra edge to the game when you can grab almost two out of three to your linemates. And the linemates in particular are called Kane and Hossa, which doesn't hurt either. On the other end of the spectrum we have the polite Czech, Patrik Elias, from the Devils, who takes only a modest share of 42,4% of the many faceoffs he faces. I wonder, could the wingers do much worse there?
The Suter-Weber wall. Among the Nashville Predators' hot topics is how to keep their top defencive pair of Ryan Suter and Shea Weber. That might prove to be a bit tricky, but that shouldn't keep the team from enjoying the ride these two defensive monsters bring. They have the biggest plus minus ratings in the league, they stand in the top5 in d-man scoring and just seem to do everything right at the moment. I'd hate to play as a visiting forward in Nashville when paired agains these two. Tough and frustrating in the offensive zone, outright scary in the defensive zone diving in front of Weber's cannon.
Speaking of defensemen, Colorado's ever promising Erik Johnson must be hating the stats charts. He just hit 50 shots, leading the league in attempts in vain. Zero goals, one assist on even strength (8 more on powerplay though) and a miserable -12 rating. Can't really say that he's fulfilled the expectations yet. Maybe he should call up Detroit's colleagues Lidström and Kronwall for some consulting. They've both let go about as many shots and are looking at 6 goals apiece. Not to mention the positive ratings in plus minus column.
Well, that was the take today. I'll be drilling more some other time. Hope you enjoy!
2011/11/18
Pulling off a Granlund
Hockey world, prepare for the newest trick in the bag! Originating likely from some other sports, like lacrosse or floorball, the so called airhook is emerging in the game of hockey. The talented younger kids on the game can sometimes playfully take the puck on top of the stick blade, spin it around and sling it off towards the target. This truly puts another angle in deceiving the goaltenders.
Mostly this kind of trickery seems to be reserved for skills competitions and other moments of showing off. However, leading the pack of taking this as one of the potential weapons in the live game action, are the Granlund brothers from Finland. Mikael basically introduced this trick to the wide world in the last hockey world championships by crushing the favorite Russian team's spirit in the semifinals. Yesterday, his younger brother Markus pulled the same stunt off in Finland's top hockey league.
These brothers will soon arrive to the NHL, Mikael Granlund was drafted on the first round in 2010 by Minnesota Wild and Markus Granlund on the second round in 2011 by Calgary Flames. Judging by their success on European and world level, they'll have a great chance for an interesting NHL career.
Just like that, it seems that goalies and defensemen need to take a while to plan for counter tactics before this trick starts really picking up among the forwards. Leave this unnoticed and soon you'll be seeing this kind of goals in every game. Some might say it doesn't belong in the game. Anyway, as long as the kids get more skillful every year, you can expect these kinds of minor changes emerging every once in a while.
I'll end this short post with a tribute to one of the originators of the airhook, form the great nordic game of floorball, Janne Tähkä. Check it out, even if you wouldn't know the game.
Mostly this kind of trickery seems to be reserved for skills competitions and other moments of showing off. However, leading the pack of taking this as one of the potential weapons in the live game action, are the Granlund brothers from Finland. Mikael basically introduced this trick to the wide world in the last hockey world championships by crushing the favorite Russian team's spirit in the semifinals. Yesterday, his younger brother Markus pulled the same stunt off in Finland's top hockey league.
These brothers will soon arrive to the NHL, Mikael Granlund was drafted on the first round in 2010 by Minnesota Wild and Markus Granlund on the second round in 2011 by Calgary Flames. Judging by their success on European and world level, they'll have a great chance for an interesting NHL career.
Just like that, it seems that goalies and defensemen need to take a while to plan for counter tactics before this trick starts really picking up among the forwards. Leave this unnoticed and soon you'll be seeing this kind of goals in every game. Some might say it doesn't belong in the game. Anyway, as long as the kids get more skillful every year, you can expect these kinds of minor changes emerging every once in a while.
I'll end this short post with a tribute to one of the originators of the airhook, form the great nordic game of floorball, Janne Tähkä. Check it out, even if you wouldn't know the game.
2011/10/31
One month milestone
October has found its end. NHL season has been running for about one month now, teams getting somewhere around ten games under their belt. We can say that the game is on full speed. No room for excuses anymore.
And what an interesting start it has been. Some teams have really had a hard time filling the expectations, others have cruised under the radar and find themselves on the top of the league. As early as this is, in the whole season's perspective, the first month has already contributed in setting up the stage for playoff hopes. Let's point out some of the obvious in the standings and try to analyze a bit on how we got here.
The Pittsburgh Penguins are standing on top of it all. Having played most games doesn't hurt, but the results so far are extremely impressing. Considering that Crosby is still out and Malkin has only one leg, this team is playing absolutely great. The secondary weapons are stepping up and making a statement. Guys like Neal, Letang and Staal may well have what it takes to take over the leadership for a cup candidate team.
Toronto Maple Leafs have surprised everyone, themselves included, by ending up this high on the standings. Phil Kessel has found his confidence after an off year and is the most dangerous player on the game now. Look at his supporting cast and compare it to other teams' top lines. Case closed. I'm still saying that Leafs are bound to fall in the autumn and we'll see them fighting for the 8th spot at the season's half way point. They just don't have the depth.
Who doesn't love Philadelphia Flyers? They must be one of the most entertaining teams now. If they would be half as disciplined as entertaining, they'd win all the games now. It's just such a talented roster that once they finally figure it out themselves, they'll climb on top of the conference in no time. Kudos to Jaromir Jagr, he's still strong as a bull and sees the game like the best of them.
Washington Capitals have been surprisingly quiet, considering that they've scored the most per game and have most points per game in the league. They've balanced the scoring a lot so far and the superstars get great support from the blue collar lines. It's going to be interesting to see how they do when real rivalries break out with Philly and Pittsburgh for the Eastern crown.
Ottawa and Florida are the flukes of the early season. Wait a while and they'll swap positions with better teams who've slept for the first month like Boston, Tampa and NY Rangers.
Edmonton Oilers are on top of the Western conference! Take some photos or screenshots or whatever. They seem to have the best groove going on in the whole league. Bunch of teenagers from first rounds of draft complement the veteran experience of Ryan Smyth & co. As long as the management lets the kids play fancy, there will be lots of people cheering in the stands. Who knows how far it'll fly this season. I'm sure that on the following couple, the Oil will return to the fight for the cup. Until they run into the free agency and salary cap issues.
Chicago, LA and San Jose are on the expected strong track, winning roughly two thirds of their games. They'll keep up the pace all the way to the playoffs if nothing dramatic happens on the rosters.
Dallas Stars have been terrific early, largely thanks to Kari Lehtonen's heroics in goal. He's on track for a career season after being the prospect with high expectations but loads of injuries for all of his NHL career so far. Hopefully he stays healthy for the season and can take the Stars to a spoler run in the playoffs.
Colorado has had a brilliant start for the season, but I expect their downfall start soon. It will be conveniently timed to match the rise of Vancouver Canucks to the fight for pole position in the West. Anaheim Ducks are also bound to take a stand and start climbing up to the playoff picture. They just have way too much firepower to not win more games than average teams.
A big old question mark lays on top of Detroit Red Wings. Will the aging squad be able to pull together another solid campaign leading to another playoff appearance or will they finally crack under pressure and fall out of competition while desperately trying to replace past decade's brightest stars with limited pool of newcomers.
And what an interesting start it has been. Some teams have really had a hard time filling the expectations, others have cruised under the radar and find themselves on the top of the league. As early as this is, in the whole season's perspective, the first month has already contributed in setting up the stage for playoff hopes. Let's point out some of the obvious in the standings and try to analyze a bit on how we got here.
The Pittsburgh Penguins are standing on top of it all. Having played most games doesn't hurt, but the results so far are extremely impressing. Considering that Crosby is still out and Malkin has only one leg, this team is playing absolutely great. The secondary weapons are stepping up and making a statement. Guys like Neal, Letang and Staal may well have what it takes to take over the leadership for a cup candidate team.
Toronto Maple Leafs have surprised everyone, themselves included, by ending up this high on the standings. Phil Kessel has found his confidence after an off year and is the most dangerous player on the game now. Look at his supporting cast and compare it to other teams' top lines. Case closed. I'm still saying that Leafs are bound to fall in the autumn and we'll see them fighting for the 8th spot at the season's half way point. They just don't have the depth.
Who doesn't love Philadelphia Flyers? They must be one of the most entertaining teams now. If they would be half as disciplined as entertaining, they'd win all the games now. It's just such a talented roster that once they finally figure it out themselves, they'll climb on top of the conference in no time. Kudos to Jaromir Jagr, he's still strong as a bull and sees the game like the best of them.
Washington Capitals have been surprisingly quiet, considering that they've scored the most per game and have most points per game in the league. They've balanced the scoring a lot so far and the superstars get great support from the blue collar lines. It's going to be interesting to see how they do when real rivalries break out with Philly and Pittsburgh for the Eastern crown.
Ottawa and Florida are the flukes of the early season. Wait a while and they'll swap positions with better teams who've slept for the first month like Boston, Tampa and NY Rangers.
Edmonton Oilers are on top of the Western conference! Take some photos or screenshots or whatever. They seem to have the best groove going on in the whole league. Bunch of teenagers from first rounds of draft complement the veteran experience of Ryan Smyth & co. As long as the management lets the kids play fancy, there will be lots of people cheering in the stands. Who knows how far it'll fly this season. I'm sure that on the following couple, the Oil will return to the fight for the cup. Until they run into the free agency and salary cap issues.
Chicago, LA and San Jose are on the expected strong track, winning roughly two thirds of their games. They'll keep up the pace all the way to the playoffs if nothing dramatic happens on the rosters.
Dallas Stars have been terrific early, largely thanks to Kari Lehtonen's heroics in goal. He's on track for a career season after being the prospect with high expectations but loads of injuries for all of his NHL career so far. Hopefully he stays healthy for the season and can take the Stars to a spoler run in the playoffs.
Colorado has had a brilliant start for the season, but I expect their downfall start soon. It will be conveniently timed to match the rise of Vancouver Canucks to the fight for pole position in the West. Anaheim Ducks are also bound to take a stand and start climbing up to the playoff picture. They just have way too much firepower to not win more games than average teams.
A big old question mark lays on top of Detroit Red Wings. Will the aging squad be able to pull together another solid campaign leading to another playoff appearance or will they finally crack under pressure and fall out of competition while desperately trying to replace past decade's brightest stars with limited pool of newcomers.
2011/10/20
Return of the King
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.
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.
2011/10/15
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.
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