Ducks Gameday—Potential playoff preview?
by Earl Sleek on Jan 14, 2009 7:00 AM PST
260 comments
Detroit Red Wings (29-7-6, 2nd in west) at Anaheim Ducks (22-17-5, t-5th in west)
Author's note: we wil be having an SBN comment-fest later on during game time. Feel free to stop by, no matter who you root for.
Here's a fun fact for you: in its franchise history, Anaheim has qualified for the playoffs six times, and in every odd-numbered year they've qualified, they have met up with Detroit ('97, '99, '03, '07). In 2006 and 2008 the Ducks qualified but the matchup was avoided. For sure 2009 is an odd-numbered year; the only question remains whether Anaheim's going to play past game 82 this time around.
I'm not sure why I bothered to label each character, but still, who will get the power play pellet tonight?
It's certainly been an odd year for the Ducks (groan) -- they're still sitting in a decent spot in a lackluster western conference, despite winning only 4 of their last 11, but the pack is certainly getting close. But you know -- positivity! The Ducks have yet to really start playing well for any stretch, and there's definitely one benefit to being stuck in a crowd at the midpoint of the season -- the Ducks need to pick up their pace in the 2nd half to qualify, and should they pull that off it makes for a nice bit of momentum heading into the spring.
Don't let my positivity fool you, though -- there's still tons to be worried about come springtime, even if the Ducks do get their game in order. San Jose, Detroit, Calgary, Chicago -- pretty much any opponent in the west's top four is a potential death-trap, and the Ducks will probably be underdogs in nearly any matchup. Still, if there's any lesson to be learned from 2003, beware the determined underdog.
A few bullets for ya:
- I really enjoyed Fenwick's piece at BoA about plus-minus and Rod Brind'Amour. Don't worry if you're not too numbers-inclined: I point it out more for its discussion points, and I think it gives a very reasoned take on the weaknesses of reading too much into a flawed statistic.
- Death to Blogspot? I don't know what's going on, but full congrats to the Falconer for moving his old blog to the SBN conglomoverse -- Bird Watchers Anonymous is an excellent addition to the Southeast end of things. Also, The Pensblog has moved to a new site -- make sure you update your favorites. If a giant tidal wave took out the entire east coast of North America, The Pensblog is probably the biggest reason why I'd care (fully trusting that Sleek's siblings don't read this blog).
- For your Red Wings angle tonight, there's SBN's Winging It In Motown, plus the old rival-favorites: Abel to Yzerman and On the Wings. For any visiting Red Wing readers, here's a post you can read from last summer: The Red Wings’ Biggest Rival: the Ducks? Here’s Five Reasons Why…
Prediction: 7 of the Ducks' last 11 games have ended in a 4-3 score, and I'm a guy who likes safe bets. Ducks 4, Red Wings 3. Goals by Blinky, Pinky, Inky, and Clyde. Oops, I mean Perry, Ryan, Pahlsson, and Morrison.
Go Ducks.
0 recs |
260 comments
|
Email
Print
Comments
Last year, the only teams in the West that I thought could trip up the Big Red Machine was the Ducks and the Flames. This year, they might have to battle through the Ducks in the first round, and then deal with a Flames team in the second, and then the eventual conference championship against San Jose. That is a tough tough road, against the three teams that have the best shot to beat the Wings, imo.
If such a scenario happened though, it would finally give me the GOOD Wings/Sharks series I’ve been hoping for over the last 7 years or so. That series in the second round a couple years ago was a pretty unremarkable series, all around, I felt.
should have given the red wing the pink bow and the lipstick..would have been more appropriate
ducks just gotta get hot…with ryan becoming a force..being optomisitic and beliving he wont hit a wall….its possible
losing to the lighting though really ala peter griffin “grinds my gears”
I need strong drink tonite
one positive we seem to show up against detriot…i see us winning in overtime 5-4
El Spade-o
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Jan 14, 2009 7:52 AM PST reply actions
should have given the red wing the pink bow and the lipstick..would have been more appropriate
Damn, Spade, you’re psychic! You must have seen the first version of this.
Unfortunately, I couldn’t make the red bow look good against the Red Wing, or as the first alternative I couldn’t make the Red Wing look very good when colored yellow. But yeah, that was definitely in the early cards.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
BTW, this was the Red Wing / Mrs. Pac Man design that nearly won out, but I decided for one that looked a bit cleaner. Sometimes my artistic impulses can overpower my desire to insult teams — probably a tragic flaw.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
haha sleek you should have used that one!!…
whats funny i think the the detriot “wing” looks like a girls hair….hehe
El Spade-o
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Jan 14, 2009 12:10 PM PST up reply actions
ya gotta go post that on a detriot blog..for shits and giggles
El Spade-o
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Jan 14, 2009 12:27 PM PST up reply actions
Bummer
I don’t think I’ll be around for tonight’s chat…hoping to be there losing my voice instead. Should be a good one!
Working on the detailed predictions now…we’ll see how they turn out tonight!
GO DUCKS!! Girlwithapuck.blogspot.com
Enjoy the game — I nearly got a late game invite also, but then the guy’s schedule got freed up.
Ah, whatever. My couch is plenty comfortable, and my liquor is cheaper.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
what liquior ya got stocked right now?
El Spade-o
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Jan 14, 2009 9:49 AM PST up reply actions
I think tonight I’ll be drinking some Johnny Walker black label, or maybe some Gentleman’s Jack I got for Christmas.
I like to think I’m classy.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
ooh black label good stuff!!!
you ever try the blue or green label…Im not classy enough or know enough classy people to ever get to try that it
I got some hoegarden beer and some bombay sapphire on tap for tonite….ill have to flip a coin they both sound good
El Spade-o
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Jan 14, 2009 10:02 AM PST up reply actions
I’ve really only had two glasses of blue label, and that was several years ago, and I probably didn’t know the difference back then.
I’ve got some green label somewhere in my liquor collection — maybe I’ll turn to that, it could be the liquid equivalent of the lucky green shirt.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
speaking of green label a kings fan once had a green label jack daniels…he ordered it online or somthing…it seemed much smoother than the og JD….i should have dropped the bottle now that i think of it…just cuz he was a kings fan
hows the green label taste by the way?
not like the red label that tastes like fuckin gasoline
El Spade-o
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Jan 14, 2009 10:44 AM PST up reply actions
It’s not bad, but my bottle’s been in semi-storage for a few months now. Tune in around game time for a real-time review! :)
A green-labeled Jack Daniels? That sounds awesome! Now I know what I’m asking for next Christmas.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
click the ahh there it is…im not good with this url stuff
El Spade-o
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Jan 14, 2009 11:06 AM PST up reply actions
Well, I think it’s a link to this very thread. How existential.
You can just copy the URL into the text of your comment, if you want. I’m not above copying and pasting (or maybe it will just work on its own).
http://www.battleofcali.com/
holy shit balls batman it does do it on its own
El Spade-o
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Jan 14, 2009 12:13 PM PST up reply actions
I usually don't do Ducks...
Haha, but I just might watch this game tonight and join in on the chat :)
If that’s the case, it’ll be the first Ducks game I’ve watched.
You might be the ingredient that’s been missing from the Ducks’ game all season.
Plus you have to experience just a little bit of Brian Hayward, just so you can hate him better.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
lol!
Haha I wish!
Though seeing as I’m actually an avid Sharks fan, I’m not too worried about them either winning or losing :p
But! It’ll be a nice change of scenery me thinks.
I love hockey games. So awesome lol
And you’ve got me all curious Brian Hayward guy! Ha will definately try to watch the game.
by AppleSweetRose on Jan 14, 2009 11:06 AM PST up reply actions
I’ve still yet to hear a reasonable argument against him. Just “I don’t like him” and “He sides with the Ducks” (Which we all know is wrong, commentators not allowed to like any teams playing. In fact they shouldn’t even like the sport.) Someone else in one post a couple weeks back had a somewhat lengthy defense of why he IS a good color commentator compared to most others but I believe the post was getting old and no one was reading it anymore. I’ll try to find it if I can.
I mean, seriously, listen to the Sharks guys, Randy will nearly crap his pants and scream his lungs out when the Sharks score, but when the other team scores he’ll calmly say “..passes to Loblaw.. and they score.” But that’s okay when they do it.
People who save up for a rainy day are like milk. And milk goes good with cookies, so you should have those people over for cookies.
Reasonable Argument
How about, “This state just ain’t big enough for a scrub like Hayward and living legend Robert James Miller!”
Paul Lo Duca is MLB's Pablo Escobar..
by DodgerBlueBalls on Jan 14, 2009 3:52 PM PST up reply actions
Mine’s much more about “I don’t like him” than anything — but I’ll see if I can’t point out some specifics tonight.
I can say this — I’ve been regularly skipping anything he says during the intermission for some time now, and I don’t feel like I’m any worse off for doing so. In fact, I’m generally more smiles the less Hayward that I experience.
Certainly a lot comes from overexposure, but I don’t think he’s really that quality. There’s dozens of other guys I’d prefer, at least.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
Go Ducks?
Seeing as how the Sharks pretty much have the pacific wrapped up, I think it may be time for us to root for any team against detroit to help hold them off. The Sharks getting home ice advantage through the play offs > rivalry with ducks. Also, how many points do you think San Jose will finish ahead of the Ducks? Maybe we should put the over/under at 20 points.
by TheRobberBaron on Jan 14, 2009 11:39 AM PST reply actions
Maybe we should put the over/under at 20 points.
Over.
I mean, it’s 20 points now, and the Sharks have two extra games to play, which at their rate almost is guaranteed points.
But that’s cool — I understand why you Sharkies like regular season accomplishments ;)
http://www.battleofcali.com/
Just keep that up! After this season you won’t be able to hold that over us any long. The Cup is ours this time. (please please please let it be so!)
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on Jan 14, 2009 3:55 PM PST up reply actions
OC Register Ducks Blog Injury Update
Selanne back on the ice, four weeks after his injury, but unlikely to play until after the All-Star break.
Good to see he’s on schedule.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
Aww…means he’ll miss the Jan 20 Rangers game I’m going to. (Not that there was much hope he’d be back that early.) Glad to hear he’ll be back soon, though.
Why are the Rangers playing the Ducks on Jan 20? They played in Los Angeles more than a month earlier.
Fuck you, Denis Gauthier
They made at stop at Honda then too…
The Ducks are GOING to NY for a back to back with both the Rangers and the Islanders. Kings don’t have that trip coming up?
GO DUCKS!! Girl with a Puck
Sorry for the confusion. I’m a Ducks fan currently at school in NYC. It’ll be my first visit to MSG, and I’m going with a couple of other Ducks fans. Plus one Rangers fan — we’re bringing her along (and making her wear a Rangers hat or something) so we don’t get stuff thrown at us (or worse).
The Ducks fans were aware of what you were talking about…no worries.
It’s that one Kings “fan” who didn’t understand…well he claims to be a Kings fan, but he seems to show up in the Ducks talk ALOT. I’ve encouraged him to come out of the fan closet, but he seems to be holding strong. He’ll learn eventually! :)
GO DUCKS!! Girlwithapuck.blogspot.com
Haha, I forgot that Kevin is a Kings fan. Which is just another point in favor of SK eleven’s argument…
Yeah, he plays it close to the vest, but when in doubt, here’s a hint. I believe Kings fans are the only people on the planet who wish Denis Gauthier was dead.
The rest of us don’t care, so long as he stays off our rosters.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
Didn’t know the Ducks travel to the Rangers this season. Didn’t think to actually look at the calendar, either… I’ve had a long day, cut me some slack!
As for why I comment on the Ducks gameday posts… well, there aren’t a lot of Kings fans around anymore since they absolutely suck. I’ve gotta talk to somebody.
Don’t believe I hate the Ducks? Take a look at my “Least favorites” on my SportingNews.com profile. And no, I didn’t just change that now: http://members.sportingnews.com/member/index.html?user_id=11257361
Fuck you, Denis Gauthier
Oh, I believe you. And don’t worry, you’re a majority.
Between Pronger, Burke, Perry, a long string of playoff success, and Disney — this whole world is filled with Duck-haters, several with very good reasons. It’d probably be shorter if I listed the teams who’s fans don’t automatically hate the Ducks.
Umm, the Thrashers, maybe?
http://www.battleofcali.com/
How about the Iowa Chops’ fans?
Paul Lo Duca is MLB's Pablo Escobar..
by DodgerBlueBalls on Jan 14, 2009 6:38 PM PST up reply actions
This game is going to be fun- I’m assuming you guys are doing a little live blog thing in these here comments?
Count me in.
Fear The Fin: Where The Second Round Is Overrated
That’s the spirit, Plank! We accept all versions of temporary turncoats here.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
Just don’t expect it to last for long- well, it might be awhile considering we don’t play again till March. What a joke that is.
I’ll be leafing through the last two week or so of posts just so I can sound like I know what I’m talking about. Bobby Ryan you’re looking good, the power play doesn’t miss Selanne too much, and Pronger is a prick.
Looks like some old habits never die Sleek. I’ll try and keep that to a minimum.
Fear The Fin: Where The Second Round Is Overrated
considering we don’t play again till March. What a joke that is.
Normally, yes — the huge time off is a joke. But I think the Ducks need a little time to get some gameplan together before the Take-No-Prisoners Shark Express rolls through Anaheim again.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
before the Take-No-Prisoners Shark Express rolls through Anaheim again.
I assume you’re talking about the pre-May Express correct?
Fear The Fin: Where The Second Round Is Overrated
how could you?!?!? traitor!!
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on Jan 14, 2009 4:00 PM PST up reply actions
It's no so much Blogspot being dead ...
… as it is a bunch of hockey blogs going Hollywood.
Blogspot’s starting to become the AHL of blog hosting.
Glad we’re having a chat-a-thon tonight. I’d prefer it to be a Kings game, but no worries. As big a Kings fan I am, I’m gonna be equally rooting on the Wings tonight.
Two more things: first of all, kudos on the Pac-Man cartoon. That’s awesome. The second thing is; if we’re having a comment-fest tonight, why not just use one of those live chat windows that other blogs use?
Fuck you, Denis Gauthier
The second thing is; if we’re having a comment-fest tonight, why not just use one of those live chat windows that other blogs use?
Two reasons: 1. I’m lazy, and 2. when it comes to new software, I’m reeeeeeaaaalllllly lazy.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
Goals by Blinky, Pinky, Inky, and Clyde. Oops, I mean Perry, Ryan, Pahlsson, and Morrison.
Who says nobody reads these predictions? Actually, nobody said that… but anyway, Pinky would be so much more appropriate with Todd Marchant. And Inky is so fitting for a Red Wings game… need I really explain that one?
Fuck you, Denis Gauthier
Who says nobody reads these predictions?
Oh, read them, please. Just don’t take them very seriously when I’m nearly always wrong.
Blinky is probably Scott Stevens — he always had a weird eye tic before he would end somebody’s life at the blueline.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
OK, so nearly gametime
Anyone else want to offer a Sleek-style prediction? I won’t hold you to any of ’em.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
24 – 21 Ducks, game winning field goal at the end.
People who save up for a rainy day are like milk. And milk goes good with cookies, so you should have those people over for cookies.
field goal? okay I know I don’t know all the rules, but field goal? :)
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on Jan 14, 2009 7:12 PM PST up reply actions
okay I'm here
but I just can’t bring myself to cheer on the ducks … or the wings
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on Jan 14, 2009 7:10 PM PST reply actions
any hockey game is fun … and with the Sharks not playing, I am stress free :)
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on Jan 14, 2009 7:16 PM PST up reply actions
Yeah, normally I wouldn’t give up watching a Lakers game for a non-Kings game, but Wings/Ducks is always a good matchup.*
*That, and the Lakers game is at halftime.
Fuck you, Denis Gauthier
I really don’t care who wins this game. I’m pulling for the Red Wings, but if the Ducks win, it wouldn’t make it any easier or harder to get to sleep tonight. The fact that I’m waking up at 5:30am to go to school tomorrow morning, when my first class doesn’t start until 2:30pm, does.
Fuck you, Denis Gauthier
He must of have seen a little ten year old boy in the net. Creepy mustaches will do that to your psyche.
Er, go Ducks. Last time I slip up like that Sleek.
Fear The Fin: Where The Second Round Is Overrated
last time this half hour huh? :)
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on Jan 14, 2009 7:18 PM PST up reply actions
:{O <- shocked Parros
Or one willing to “do anything to get the boys ready for the game.”
Okay, seriously done now.
Fear The Fin: Where The Second Round Is Overrated
looks that way huh?
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on Jan 14, 2009 7:23 PM PST up reply actions
man, are there more sharks fans here than ducks fans?
Yeah. But it usually clears out by mid-May.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
Scotty really is a butter smooth skater. Helluva playoff beard too.
Fear The Fin: Where The Second Round Is Overrated
It’ll be interesting to hear how Hayward calls the game with the Ducks losing.
Fuck you, Denis Gauthier
Sleek, I’m curious about something. Expert analysis has never been a focus of this blog, but do you think the Ducks should make a trade? And if so, for who? It’s obvious they aren’t the same team now than they have been the past three seasons, and the Wings and Sharks seem to be on an entirely different playing level.
Fuck you, Denis Gauthier
do you think the Ducks should make a trade?
No, not really. Only if the playoffs fall out of reach, then they should unload some UFAs. But generally, Burke has played this year’s hand out early in the year — I think acquisition trades would be too costly and too complicated (with that ever-present cap ceiling).
I think what I’d do is just hope for the best this year and just re-sign some side players— the Ducks are restarting again next summer no matter what — no need to overcommit on that now. We can just pretend that Teemu Selanne is a deadline-day pickup; that’s fine by me.
Another d-man would be nice, though.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
Which of the following UFAs do you think the Ducks should re-sign (first choice): Morrisson, Parros, Montador
Fuck you, Denis Gauthier
I think Montador is my top priority outside of Pahlsson. Right now the Ducks’ blueline next year is Chris Pronger, and I’m guessing we’ll need five more guys eventually.
Parros is next, if he’s cheap. Simply because the fans love him, and that’s reason enough to sign a minimum wage player.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
The Wizard of Os gets a big break. And who says sitting on your ass never accomplishes anything.
Fear The Fin: Where The Second Round Is Overrated
Sammy’s gotta be gassed. His icetime is pretty high. 5:47 already. ONly Pronger and SNieds have played more.
Nonsense. Sammy is a (voting) robot. He never tires (of stuffing the ASG ballot box).
http://www.battleofcali.com/
Speaking of voting robots, your back and forth with that commenter on Fanhouse was pure gold.
Fear The Fin: Where The Second Round Is Overrated
Here it is. I didn’t really understand the complaint, really. He/she would have voted thousands of times, apparently, except they couldn’t get past the first screen?
http://www.battleofcali.com/
It can be found here.
Sadly, she/he said she was a Shark fan. Dark days on the interwebs.
Fear The Fin: Where The Second Round Is Overrated
Not that I would cheer the Ducks or Kings
but a State rape of the Wings visit would be awfully nice.
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on Jan 14, 2009 7:38 PM PST reply actions
How the hell do you get a rape graphic with Michigan? There are like 2 separate parts.
Fuck you, Denis Gauthier
that isn’t my problem to figure out … I’m not the cartoonist :)
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on Jan 14, 2009 7:42 PM PST up reply actions
I think I’ve seen a threesome online once before…….
Cali’s a big boy. He can handle it.
Fear The Fin: Where The Second Round Is Overrated
Getzlaf looking to reclaim the points lead in the West
I'm a happy seal
by SwisherThresher on Jan 14, 2009 7:41 PM PST reply actions
Hahaha. Did the Ducks feed show you the ridiculous snot rockets that Getzlaf was firing off? Looks like he was getting set up for an interview, and he was firing away—first one side, then the other. While guys were walking past him to the locker room. Gross.
Maybe his new nickname could be the Snot Rocket
I'm a happy seal
by SwisherThresher on Jan 14, 2009 7:45 PM PST up reply actions
OK, intermission question for Sharks fans
Since there’s so many of you.
Phoenix, Colorado, Columbus, Minnesota, Edmonton, Nashville, or Dallas.
Wo do you NOT want to see in the first round out of those choices?
http://www.battleofcali.com/
Dallas, easy. Turco gets hot and shit goes bad.
After that, Columbus or Edmonton- two young teams that have a lot to fight for.
Fear The Fin: Where The Second Round Is Overrated
I was leaning towards Edmonton myself as first choice.
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on Jan 14, 2009 7:48 PM PST up reply actions
btw that dual intermission question was sort of weird.
Fear The Fin: Where The Second Round Is Overrated
Love how the Kings are “conveniently” left out of that list.
The answer is Columbus, actually. If they make the playoffs for the first time in franchise history, Mason is gonna be too tough to score against.
Fuck you, Denis Gauthier
The answer is Columbus, actually.
Damn Regis, looks like I blew a chance at a million bucks.
Fear The Fin: Where The Second Round Is Overrated
Yeah, maybe I’m making too bold of a prediction in January, but Mason has look pretty impressive. He made 45 saves or something in a shutout against the Capitals in DC last week.
Fuck you, Denis Gauthier
It’s cool, I was just poking fun at your cocksure answer to something that’s an opinion. I agree though, Mason has looked really good this year, and Columbus has played us extremely well. Nash is a guy who generates about two scoring opportunities (for himself) per game too- that sort of “gamebreaker” goes a long way in the postseason.
Fear The Fin: Where The Second Round Is Overrated
in my opinion
Do not want to face:
Phoenix (They’ve given the Sharks fits and they have super shot blocker Z.Michalek)
Columbus (Have ’94 Sharks first round upset written all over them, carried by Baby Jesus Mason)
Edmonton (Roloson has his veteran savvy equipment malfunctions, ’06 redux?)
Dallas (The Stars love embarrassing the Sharks in the postseason, beware a healthy Morrow)
I'm a happy seal
by SwisherThresher on Jan 14, 2009 7:52 PM PST up reply actions
That’s basically a majority of the possible opponents ;)
I think (and correct me if I’m wrong Sharks fans), we wouldn’t be concerned with playing any of the possible playoff opponents seven times during the season and coming out with a losing record. It’s more of the whole “playoffs” thing that scares the shit out of the collective we.
Fear The Fin: Where The Second Round Is Overrated
I'm sure I've stated this before, and it may seem cliché
The only team we should really worry about in the postseason is the Sharks. The last few playoffs (particularly ’04, ’06, ’07), the Sharks defeated themselves. They had the upper hand, whether it was home ice advantage, and/or a series lead – only to crumble when faced with adversity.
They seemed to lack that extra gear – the drive to do anything and everything to win it all. Hopefully McLellan, along with Blake, Luko and Boyle, can lead the way.
I'm a happy seal
by SwisherThresher on Jan 14, 2009 8:05 PM PST up reply actions
Intermission Question
Hey Sleek, how has Hedican looked thus far? I’m curious because the Sharks were rumored to be interested him during the summer…..
Basically I’m wondering why we still have Semenov on the roster.
Fear The Fin: Where The Second Round Is Overrated
Hedican costs less than a million — that’s his number one asset. He’s married to Yamaguchi — that’s #2.
But basically, Hedican is the guy who proves the statement “it takes more than good skating to be an NHL defenseman.” In most every other aspect, he’s slightly lacking — not a very good shot, pass, hit, position, whatever.
He’s really a guy that should be hidden 5/6, as the Ducks are now doing. He’s probably a step up on Semenov, but he’s not entirely an asset, I’d say.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
I figured Doug Wilson was thinking McLellan could help develop Semenov’s shot from the blueline- he has one of the hardest shots in the league, but just can’t seem to get it on net. Age was probably a factor there as well.
Can he fight at least? Semenov had a recent game where he tried to fight a guy and only got a two minute minor.
Fear The Fin: Where The Second Round Is Overrated
Probably not — Montador’s the guy who’s been fighting from the blueline.
Basically, Hedican’s a more experienced version of Joe Dipenta — solid enough you’ll keep playing him, but nothing particularly special. You can win a cup with Joe Dipenta, but he’s got to be in the background.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
Damn, I missed the goal… I mean, thank God, I missed the goal.
I don’t know who the fuck I want to win anymore, not because I’m a closet Ducks fan (I’m not, I swear), but a Michigan state rape would be so sweet. Not like the Kings have a snowball’s chance in hell of winning tomorrow against the Wings, unless Pronger takes out Zetterberg, Datsyuk, Holmstrom… Osgood.. Babcock.. Yzerman.. the octopus…
The Kings are doomed for tomorrow.
Fuck you, Denis Gauthier
if Tampa Bay can beat the Ducks, Kings can take on the Wings
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on Jan 14, 2009 7:49 PM PST up reply actions
Don’t buy into my positivity — the Ducks are entirely beatable this year. Basically it’s been a coin flip, no matter the opponent.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
I keep thinking the Ducks are fooling everyone and will come back strong as ever. Like some long-lasting April fool’s trick.
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on Jan 14, 2009 7:58 PM PST up reply actions
I’d have to agree- no matter the outcome, the Ducks are going to give any team one hell of a series. Physical, great leadership on the blueline.
And, if the current trend continues, being less fervent in taking dumb penalties (their ultimate kryptonite last year) will make them that much more dangerous.
Fear The Fin: Where The Second Round Is Overrated
It could happen. 2003, 2006, 2008 — all those seasons the Ducks really became world-beaters in the second half of the year after being really mediocre through the first half.
The cup year was really the only year that the Ducks used a really good start to get into the playoffs. Sort of like the Sharks are doing now, except this year there are two less teams chasing right behind.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
Yeah, not just tonight. He’s been up-and-down a lot, with some down coming lately.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
I’ve always really liked Hiller. Just sayin’.
How has he looked this year? Is it a sort of “we’re going to play the guy we pay” thing, or has Hiller been up and down as well?
Fear The Fin: Where The Second Round Is Overrated
Hiller’s been very good this year — most of his losses I’d attribute more to the team sucking and not scoring than anything.
And that’s the shady part of the Burke legacy — Giguere is on year 2 of a four-year no-movement deal. Hiller is signed affordably both this year and next, but it may turn out he too goes the way of the Bryzgalov.
Still, it’s nice when your team keeps producing quality back-ups. That takes some of the sting off.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
Hudler goes Malkin up in this bitch.
Please don’t let this be a three point game.
Fear The Fin: Where The Second Round Is Overrated
Worst case scenerio for SJ fans, Wings beat Ducks in OT
I'm a happy seal
by SwisherThresher on Jan 14, 2009 8:06 PM PST up reply actions
Oh man
I really hope that Corey Perry isn’t “mentoring” the young kids. They could do without that for sure.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
Isn’t there a kid named Salcido? I had him on a salary spreadsheet during the summer, and instead McIver, Festerling, and Mikkelson have all passed him by, perhaps?
http://www.battleofcali.com/
I have no clue, but I’ll be the Chops coach is pretty pissed. Who’s left to play for that team, I wonder.
Overall, this…oh wait, you just said what I was gonna say about being ahead after two.
I’ve got it! The Iowa Chops should allow Sean Avery to play there!
They could use the publicity (see: Brett Favre), and Dallas needs a place to stash him until buyout season. And Iowa needs the bodies. A win-win-win!
http://www.battleofcali.com/
Ouch
Hope Uncle Festerling is OK — he’s been real solid (or at least Scott keeps making him look good, which is entirely possible).
http://www.battleofcali.com/
These games are always so exciting. The 07 WCF was one of the best series I’ve seen in a long long time.
Fear The Fin: Where The Second Round Is Overrated
Looks like I'm way late to the party here.
Let’s go Ducks.
God I feel dirty now…
It takes a big man to cry and it takes a bigger man to laugh at that man. -Jamie Baker
You’ll feel better after you elbow or stomp somebody and don’t feel any remorse.
It’s nice.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
Remorse is for the weak.
It takes a big man to cry and it takes a bigger man to laugh at that man. -Jamie Baker
by Lurker Shark on Jan 14, 2009 8:56 PM PST up reply actions
you should! I refuse to say it myself, but did admit a State rape would be nice.
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on Jan 14, 2009 8:55 PM PST up reply actions
I figure
if Plank’s doing it, it can’t be all that bad. Besides Detroit’s a bigger threat right now.
It takes a big man to cry and it takes a bigger man to laugh at that man. -Jamie Baker
by Lurker Shark on Jan 14, 2009 8:56 PM PST up reply actions
if Plankdude jumped off a cliff would you do it? No is the correct answer. :)
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on Jan 14, 2009 8:58 PM PST up reply actions
Nope, I'd probably watch and laugh.
I’ll just have to take a shower after this.
It takes a big man to cry and it takes a bigger man to laugh at that man. -Jamie Baker
by Lurker Shark on Jan 14, 2009 9:00 PM PST up reply actions
How many times has Hayward used the “whale of a…” expression during this game?
Fuck you, Denis Gauthier
Another late Sharks fan here
I could either analyzing Kafka’s works on an existential level, or root for the Ducks to be the Wings. My love of procrastination won out by a thin margin. That doesn’t mean I don’t cringe whenever I hear Pronger’s name, though.
This definitely beats any kind of work.
It takes a big man to cry and it takes a bigger man to laugh at that man. -Jamie Baker
by Lurker Shark on Jan 14, 2009 9:06 PM PST up reply actions
Rarely do I agree with the timing of Anaheim’s once-per-game “Refs you suck” chant, but that one was pretty spot-on.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
You think that chant is something, I remember a game between the Kings and Avalanche back in the 2001-02 season at Staples Center. The Kings trailed 3-2 in the last minute of the third period. Jason Allison (back when he was healthy) was tripped on a clear breakaway or something, and the referee didn’t call a penalty. Later on the play, the Kings received a penalty on a very iffy call. Andy Murray argued with the referees, and got ejected from the game. The Kings fans, a sellout crowd (because we were GOOD back then) threw all sorts of debris on the ice, and starting chanting “fuck you, refs”. The chants began in Section 331, and 331 and 332 are the ones that always start the chants.
That was truly something. I was only 11 at the time, and I was absolutely terrified because I just felt somebody from up above was gonna throw a beer or something and hit me in the back of my head (who from Section 332 thinks they can hit the ice anyway?). It was a game that I’ll always remember.
Here’s the game recap (kinda): http://community.seattletimes.nwsource.com/archive/?date=20020127&slug=nhl27
Fuck you, Denis Gauthier
That's something else.
The worst I’ve seen at the Shark Tank are the “Bullshit” chants. Usually takes a couple really bad calls for that to come out. It’s actually pretty impressive when it gets most of the crowd involved.
It takes a big man to cry and it takes a bigger man to laugh at that man. -Jamie Baker
by Lurker Shark on Jan 14, 2009 9:24 PM PST up reply actions
ouch
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on Jan 14, 2009 9:08 PM PST reply actions
Oh this just keeps getting better and better.
It takes a big man to cry and it takes a bigger man to laugh at that man. -Jamie Baker
make that a double ouch
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on Jan 14, 2009 9:09 PM PST reply actions
Hmmm. Well I guess they took Beauchemin’s OT goal into consideration there..
http://www.battleofcali.com/
what are the chances Ducks score twice in the next 10min
and the Wings zip
I'm a happy seal
by SwisherThresher on Jan 14, 2009 9:12 PM PST reply actions
it’s hockey … I learned early on that miracles can happen
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on Jan 14, 2009 9:13 PM PST up reply actions
haha so we're lookin' for a miracle here
I'm a happy seal
by SwisherThresher on Jan 14, 2009 9:14 PM PST up reply actions
did I imply that? :)
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on Jan 14, 2009 9:15 PM PST up reply actions
fantastic
It takes a big man to cry and it takes a bigger man to laugh at that man. -Jamie Baker
by Lurker Shark on Jan 14, 2009 9:16 PM PST up reply actions
ah but they aren’t Mighty anymore
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on Jan 14, 2009 9:17 PM PST up reply actions
not that swell. seemingly every game these days ends 4-3 one way or the other.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
I can see how that would get old fast
It takes a big man to cry and it takes a bigger man to laugh at that man. -Jamie Baker
by Lurker Shark on Jan 14, 2009 9:17 PM PST up reply actions
that bites
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on Jan 14, 2009 9:20 PM PST up reply actions
Oh yeah, kinda forgot about the game. Was watching American Idol.
Who scored the goals (both teams)? Don’t feel like looking up.
Fuck you, Denis Gauthier
Oh my God, Hayward actually said that the Red Wings player was RIGHT!! So much for the homerism. He’s gonna be fired for that, isn’t he?
Fuck you, Denis Gauthier
Where do NHL teams find their color guys?
“You want your best players to be your best players.”
Thanks for that gem.
Support Your Local Coyotes Blog! -
Five For Howling
Oh lucky you.
It takes a big man to cry and it takes a bigger man to laugh at that man. -Jamie Baker
by Lurker Shark on Jan 14, 2009 9:33 PM PST up reply actions
“The game winning goal for the Red Wings shouldn’t have been a goal.”
I didn’t see the goal in question. I read on here that it might’ve been a high stick. I’ll have to see it first.
Fuck you, Denis Gauthier
I’m a terrible referee—I didn’t mean that it was definitely a high stick. I was just rooting for the refs to call it that way.
The Ducks radio guys thought it was too.
It takes a big man to cry and it takes a bigger man to laugh at that man. -Jamie Baker
by Lurker Shark on Jan 14, 2009 9:33 PM PST up reply actions
Okay, I just saw the replay, and it was inconclusive to me. The call on the ice was “goal” which means there has to be clear-cut evidence that the stick was above the height of the crossbar. The view I saw didn’t show the puck very clearly, and it looked like part of the blade was right with the crossbar. Very close, and they probably just didn’t have enough evidence to overturn it.
Now, as much as I was pulling for the Wings to win the game, I never want to see ANY team lose a game on a goal that was illegal.
Fuck you, Denis Gauthier
I will give the NHL credit for that.
They put a lot of effort into making sure goals are called cleanly and they seem to do a decent job of it. How many other leagues have a war room watching all the footage of every scoring play?
It takes a big man to cry and it takes a bigger man to laugh at that man. -Jamie Baker
by Lurker Shark on Jan 14, 2009 9:43 PM PST up reply actions
Yeah, it looked to be a high stick, but I only saw it from one angle, once, and on an extremely blurry feed. It was a little iffy – the stick was above Giguere’s head, which was around the height of the crossbar – but since the call on the ice was goal, there had to be conclusive evidence.
ouch, more 3rd period magic for the comeback Wings
the first time the Ducks have lost this season when leading after two
I'm a happy seal
by SwisherThresher on Jan 14, 2009 9:31 PM PST reply actions
It’s kind of a flawed stat, in a way, because the Ducks have blown several third-period leads. I guess until now it’s just been with leads they acquired earlier in the period.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
Why does a Duck player always get the Player of the Game “award” (as if it means something) even when the Ducks lose a heartbreaker and get zero points?
It’s like Bobby Ryan’s hat trick against the Kings. It’s nice, but it doesn’t mean anything unless they get a point.
Fuck you, Denis Gauthier
It happens. I believe in both cases they were the highest scoring skater of the night — it’s not outrageous to give the award based on that.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
Did Ryan get the player of the game in the Kings/Ducks game last Thursday? I don’t know, since I was at the game and didn’t watch the replay.
But if so, it’s different if the broadcaster of the winning team gives it to a player on the other team because he genuinely thinks he was the best player. If the broadcaster of the losing team gives it to a player on that team, you can’t be certain.
Fuck you, Denis Gauthier
No, I think it was Frolov? Ryan got second star of the game, and second star of the week. Frolov wasn’t the winner there, though.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
Frolov had the game winning goal in that game. Personally, I would’ve given it to Ryan because he single-handedly turned the game around for the Ducks in such a short time. If not Ryan, I’d give it to Kopitar because he had a really nice effort to score his goal, and was a +3.
Fuck you, Denis Gauthier
Perry looks to have inherited Marchant’s stone hands. You’re kidding me right, my mother could have top shelved that.
Don't bRuin your life. Make love with a Trojan
Well, look on the bright side
Galactica is only two nights away!
Thanks for stopping in, everyone. Feel free to break SBN with your comments. :)
http://www.battleofcali.com/
That might just end up being the best thing this week.
It takes a big man to cry and it takes a bigger man to laugh at that man. -Jamie Baker
by Lurker Shark on Jan 14, 2009 9:52 PM PST up reply actions
Galactica is only two nights away!
I KNOW!!!!! Been counting down forever!
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on Jan 14, 2009 11:42 PM PST up reply actions
Hmmm..
Didn’t get to watch the game!
Ah well…
I suppose it didn’t go well… 4-3.
Hmm, I wonder who bet that on those numbers again..
by AppleSweetRose on Jan 14, 2009 10:18 PM PST reply actions
double bummer
much would have rather been here tonight…
No voice and a loss…
I’m really over this 4-3 thing.
GO DUCKS!! Girlwithapuck.blogspot.com
First star: Ryan Getzlaf
Second star: Steve Montador
Third star: Johan Franzen
Just by looking at this, you’d have no clue that the Ducks actually LOST this game.
Fuck you, Denis Gauthier
I know you want to make this into a controversy, but I don’t know if it’s that outrageous.
First star: highest scoring forward of the night
Second star: highest scoring defenseman of the night
Third star: game winning goal
Yeah, you probably have to check the score to find out who won, but I don’t know that the three stars shouldn’t reflect the three best performers of the night in a pretty close game.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
Good morning, people.
I’ll be featuring this again for tomorrow’s gameday post, but if you want a sneak peek at today’s Duck-and-Penguin inspired Fanhouse PuckToon, here it is.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
Ref Wings VS Ducks
I found this one and had to copy it….
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
User Tools
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Recent FanPosts
FanShots
Quick hits of video, photos, quotes, chats, links and lists that you find around the web.
Recommended FanShots
Recent FanShots
Pacific Standings
| GP | W | L | OTL | PT | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
San Jose
|
82 | 51 | 20 | 11 | 113 |
|
Phoenix
|
82 | 50 | 25 | 7 | 107 |
|
Los Angeles
|
82 | 46 | 27 | 9 | 101 |
|
Anaheim
|
82 | 39 | 32 | 11 | 89 |
|
Dallas
|
82 | 37 | 31 | 14 | 88 |
(updated 4.12.2010 at 6:21 AM PDT)
4 years old and counting!
SBNation.com Recent Stories
In Association With
Latest Puck Daddy - NHL from Yahoo! Sports
- Trending Topics: Odd arbitration decisions; more NHLers Tweeting
- Ovechkin wins fifth Kharlamov Trophy, talks Talbot
- Puck Headlines: Witt hits waivers; Kovalchuk grievance details set
- Jersey Fouls: Sharks get creatively awful; hockey movie pass/fail
- White, Flames agree to one-year deal; Bruins sign Wheeler
Certain photos copyright © 2010 by Associated Press or Getty Images. Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of Associated Press and Getty Images is strictly prohibited.
