Ducks Gameday—Go easy on us, Islanders
Anaheim Ducks (23-20-5, t-6th in west) at New York Islanders (12-29-5, 15th in east)
Sigh -- well, at least Giguere's contract expires a decade before Dipietro's.
It's definitely been a tough fifteen games thus far for Ducks fans waiting for Selanne to return from his injury (5-8-2); since then the Ducks have been giving away standings points with alarming regularity, and now the team sits squarely in the middle of the western conference bubble with a slew of other teams -- I guess if you're into nailbiting finishes, you've got it.

I was so depressed that I broke out this old picture.
I think the most aggravating thing about watching the Ducks fall further and further in the west is that it's not quite clear what the issue for the team is -- sure they could surrender a few less goals-against, but for the most part they've played their opposition pretty evenly. In the fifteen games the Ducks have had a 3rd period lead seven of the games and a 3rd period tie in eleven of them -- but for whatever reason those neck-and-neck situations are turning into standings points very rarely these days.
And it's not a situation where I think the return of Selanne provides an easy answer -- wunderchild Bobby Ryan has been top-notch since Teemu cut himself. Ryan has been extremely productive at even-strength (one area Teemu has yet to dominate this season) and on the power play (when Teemu went down, the Ducks had a 18.5% PP; since he's been gone it's operated at 29.3%). Sure, when Teemu returns it adds another offensive element, but so far his void has been very capably filled, and yet the team still loses.
So it's tough to tell you what needs to happen -- I'm still not sure there's much to be done at the deadline for this team (perhaps another blueliner), but more than anything the Ducks could use a lot more luck in close games. And thanks to the western conference standings build-up, that 3rd period luck needs to kick in rather quickly. But still... positivity!
I may not feel optimistic, but in a stretch of depressing hockey results, how can you argue with this level of cuteness?

Positivity! We can do it if we stick together!
Prediction: For your even-more-frustrated Islanders angle, check out Lighthouse Hockey. Ducks 3, Islanders 2. Goals by Kunitz, Pahlsson, and Moen.
Go Ducks.
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73 comments
Comments
oh good
I’m glad I’m not the only one who feels a bit confused.
GO DUCKS!! Girlwithapuck.blogspot.com
by SK eleven on Jan 21, 2009 8:56 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Agreed...
Yeah, it is a bit confusing and tough to see the Ducks give away these standings points on a regular basis. But one thing I’ve noticed in their past 15 or so games is the lack of stellar play from their goaltenders. Don’t get me wrong, I think both Jiggy and Hiller have played admirably, but neither of them have stolen a game for the Ducks in the last 15 or so games.
Every year I can remember watching the Ducks, their goaltender would on a regular basis steal a game for them. I think that’s what’s missing for the Ducks.
Goaltending was good at the beginning of the season but has lately just been decent. We need a great goaltending performance for one of the upcoming games. It probably doesn’t need to start tonight against the Islanders, but it would be great for the first two games after the break against Phoenix and Chicago (two teams ahead of the Ducks right now).
by Wooster11 on Jan 21, 2009 9:05 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Don’t get me wrong, I think both Jiggy and Hiller have played admirably, but neither of them have stolen a game for the Ducks in the last 15 or so games.
Really, though, it’s almost that the Ducks’ netminder needs to steal a game in order to get a win at all. Hiller got shutouts against Phoenix and Minnesota, and played really well in their win against the Kings. But very very few wins have come when goaltending has been less than stellar — anything approaching mediocrity and the Ducks will lose almost guaranteed.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 21, 2009 9:25 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
the Ducks’ netminder needs to steal a game in order to get a win at all.
I can’t imagine that outlook would be acceptable by ANY team in the league. I mean, no one can rely on that ONE guy for so much. Not fair to either Jiggy or Hiller to say that without them being 100% on top of their game can their TEAM possibly pull out a win.
So that clearly points to additional problems elsewhere. Can it just be an overwhelming presence of rookie defense? Is it fair to say that both Pronger and Scotty have been fabulous thus far? I think that would be stretching it too. Then again, they are kinda on their own right now.
I do think it’s safe to say that offense is actually playing a POSITIVE role right now. I mean, they are getting the goals they need…just not defending the other end of the ice well enough.
Goaltending can’t be the only problem.
GO DUCKS!! Girlwithapuck.blogspot.com
by SK eleven on Jan 21, 2009 9:57 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Really, though, it’s almost that the Ducks’ netminder needs to steal a game in order to get a win at all.
Oh, hahaha, you needn’t worry about such high standards being necessary tonight. Pull up a chair, we’ll serve your short-term-signed goalie some tea.
I’m personally disappointed Teemu won’t be there, because he apparently believes in countryman Sean Bergenheim’s skill set. And lord knows, Bergie needs believers (39 GP, 7G, 4A).
Lighthouse Hockey: an SB Nation New York Islanders blog with hip issues.
by Dominik on Jan 21, 2009 12:32 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
It’s possible that the Ducks outclass the Islanders tonight, but I don’t know if I’d put money on it. Lately it seems every game is a coin flip, no matter the opposition, and even more recently it seems that coin flips just don’t like going Anaheim’s way.
I would have been more optimistic before two weeks ago when Anaheim lost consecutive games to each conference’s 14th-best team. Now, I have no idea what to expect anymore.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 21, 2009 12:40 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
One thing I noticed last night was NYR had our number when they were killing penalties. They would start skating straight for the point the minute the puck got cycled above the net.
They even scored a shorty. We need to be a little more creative on the PPL when teams are doing that, they obviously watched some video on us, yet I never see an adjustment.
Because of that I really did not care about the amature reffing because I was not impressed with our chances on the PPL.
I do have one question though, why the hell is NY trapping so much? Was that the game plan, to get Drury and Gomes to help perfect the trap? Just thought that was wierd, but then again, maybe that stratagy was employed just for the Ducks (obviously it worked). #1 star maybe goes to the NYR video review team then.
by Mike in OC on Jan 21, 2009 10:49 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Actually, I think they gave up TWO shorties last night. Didn’t the empty netter happen during a 6-on-4? And the other two Rangers’ goals were PP goals.
Good news: 5-on-5 wasn’t bad.
Bad news: Specialty teams sucked.
Did anyone else notice how Carlyle was juggling the lines? I wasn’t paying the closest attention, but I think Pahlsson, Getzlaf, and Kunitz played together during even-strength situations. And then Perry, Morrison, Ryan, plus sometimes Ebbett. Third line, I saw a lot of Carter, Moen, RNiedermayer. It was strange.
Oh, and worst taunt of the game? Some guy followed me and my friends out of MSG, yelling “Bombay was a Hawk? Bombay was a Hawk?” He was slurring, so it took me a while to figure out what the hell he was saying. But when the Mighty Ducks (the movie) reference finally clicked, I gave him the most disdainful look I could possibly muster. I wish I had a comeback, but I’m terrible at thinking on my feet when I’m upset.
by g r a c e on Jan 21, 2009 3:08 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Actually, I think they gave up TWO shorties last night.
Yeah, but one was acutely painful, while the late one was just the dull ache of inevitability.
Did anyone else notice how Carlyle was juggling the lines?
Yeah, he’s been doing that for two games now (did it in Minnesota also). I haven’t paid the most attention, but I think lines are something like this for the moment:
Kunitz – Getzlaf – Morrison (if Getzlaf has nobody to pass to, think he’ll shoot?)
Ebbett – Pahlsson – Perry (let Sammy backcheck for us)
Moen – Carter – Rob N. (where’s Sammy to backcheck for us?)
Parros – Miller? – Ryan (I may be mixed up with Miller and Ebbett?)
Hopefully they go back to the more traditional lines soon, but I don’t mind the shake-up. Worked once, at least.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 21, 2009 3:18 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Haha, whoops. Guess I was paying less attn to the lines than I thought.
This has nothing to do with his recent line-juggling, but (in a whisper) do you think Carlyle has lost this team? It’s gotten to the point where, when the other team scores the first goal, I start to prepare myself emotionally for a loss. Where is the drive/motivation/sticktion?
by g r a c e on Jan 21, 2009 3:30 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I dunno, I hardly ever know what it really means when a coach “loses his team”. Does the team not get good results? Sure. But then again, didn’t the Ducks come back and re-tie a game twice yesterday? Haven’t they re-tied a lot of games in the last couple of weeks? I’d think that if the coach were the problem, we’d see less really close games and less comebacks overall.
All that said, though — it’s always true — easier to fire one coach than to replace twenty players. I’d hate to throw Carlyle to the curb for what seems to be a matter of luck, but I’ve seen coaches fired for less. I’ve never truly been clear on what makes a good coach vs. a bad coach, but Carlyle does have a cup — that is something I don’t think you fluke your way into.
Then again, Marc Crawford has a cup ring, too, so who knows?
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 21, 2009 3:40 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I hear Carlyle’s a screamer. That can’t help when the wheels are coming off.
by GOOLIAN on Jan 21, 2009 6:20 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
yea your right ebbet and miller were switched
El Spade-o
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Jan 21, 2009 3:37 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
BTW, unrelated to hockey pessimism
I did ban my first SBN user account from BoC today.
If, however, there is a large reader demand for more unsolicited comment-advertisements about where you can meet hot online singles, let me know and I’ll re-think the policy. :)
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 21, 2009 12:18 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
If, however, there is a large reader demand for more unsolicited comment-advertisements about where you can meet hot online singles, let me know and I’ll re-think the policy. :)
damn, thats the only reason I’m here. Who are these Ducks you speak of?
GO DUCKS!! Girlwithapuck.blogspot.com
by SK eleven on Jan 21, 2009 12:24 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Who are these Ducks you speak of?
I don’t know, but it looks like there will be three more Ducks at the All-Star Game than Red Wings. Even though I hate the event, it does bring a smile to my face that only the 29 classiest teams will be represented this weekend.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 21, 2009 12:36 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I told my grandma not to advertise here anymore- she makes a fortune off that shit though. Birthday presents really kick ass.
As for the Ducks, please pick it up. I’m still looking forward to a second round match up and don’t think I could live without it.
Fear The Fin: Where The Second Round Is Overrated
by Mr. Plank on Jan 21, 2009 12:37 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
As for the Ducks, please pick it up.
You guys hold onto that top spot — the Ducks are stealthily slipping into 8th. That’s the plan, right? Because really, I don’t think it’s wise to keep trying to set up for Round Two anymore.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 21, 2009 12:51 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I have to admit, as much as I root for the Ducks to lose, it’s no fun cheering that when they are down. I still think it’s some kinda April’s Fool trick.
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on Jan 21, 2009 12:56 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I think most people have trouble at first when they come to the realization that they are closet Ducks fans.
Don’t worry, though; it gets easier.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 21, 2009 1:06 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Back up there buddy!!! Or I’ll be saying some choice words that might get me banned. :)
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on Jan 21, 2009 7:03 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
am i allowed?
am i allowed to give up on this season yet?…
Im vowing right now not to watch them till they win two in a row..being a steelers and lakers fan..i have a lot to occupy my sports time so to speak….
i cant be any more pissed off witht he ducks than i am now…
we finally are able to score consistantly but we still lose games?
you know how fuckin frustrating that is….fuuuuck
i still the answer is a big trade….i heard new jersy is looking for D for a stretch run….send scotty back to new jersy(with his brother) for some draft picks and some average devils D..send a message to all the other players..i honestly think the only way to wake up the duckaroos….sure it might not work…but fuck what were doing now isnt working either…at least this way we get some high draft picks
El Spade-o
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Jan 21, 2009 2:52 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
yea i was gonna ask u to post that cartoon again…very appropriate
El Spade-o
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Jan 21, 2009 2:53 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
i still think the answer is a big trade….i heard new jersy is looking for D for a stretch run….send scotty back to new jersy(with his brother) for some draft picks and some average devils D..
I think there’s some general holes with this thinking (we do remember who won the Conn Smythe, right? and how Rob N. had as many playoff goals as Teemu S.?), but even if I were fully aboard with the idea, I don’t think the Devils have any cap room to be taking on the Niedermayers. And I’m generally not too keen on dropping the guy who’s played probably the best on the blueline for the team as a solution.
But really, my larger point: talking trades is really tough for the Ducks — obviously Anaheim can’t take on any additional salary, but a lot of the teams you’d think might make good trade partners are in similar crunches. I don’t think SJ, Dallas, Detroit, Chicago, Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver, the Rangers, Devils, Flyers, Penguins, or Capitals (note: this is all off the top of my head) are able to take on any significant salary — and that’s just teams that are limited by the cap ceiling and not their internal budgets.
A trade might be a good shake-up in other scenarios (like before the cup when Anaheim was miles from the ceiling), but right now it’s just too tight to get anything meaningful done. I think largely improvement will have to come from within this year. If it works out, cool. If not, hell. Either way, the time to make sweeping changes is next summer — not only do Anaheim’s hands become untied, but same with a lot of potential trade partners.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 21, 2009 3:03 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
just sucks knowing a stanely cup is no-way in your future…ive gotten to that acceptance…and that sucks dick
El Spade-o
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Jan 21, 2009 3:40 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Aw, you have to leave some room for crazy what-ifs. The Ducks had no chance to see the second round in 2003, had no chance to make the WCF in 2006 — but crazy things can and do happen in best-of-seven series.
But I don’t know what trade you think could happen to change that — so long as there are the Sharks and Red Wings, the Ducks will need lots of luck to make another cup finals this spring — other than possibly missing the playoffs altogether, I don’t think that the recent struggles (or a knee-jerk trade) affect that reality.
Basically, I don’t mind being an underdog — that’s why god invented upsets.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 21, 2009 3:45 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
shhhhhhhhh
dont talk about upsets and underdawgs
i dont want my steelers losing next week
El Spade-o
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Jan 21, 2009 4:13 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Aw, c'mon, Ducks
Can’t even wait until I’m done with work to fall behind?
2 shots on Giguere, and 1 goes in.
Get thee to Montreal, you all star.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 21, 2009 4:15 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
It’s hilarious how pleasantly surprised the Islanders’ announcers are at all the chances their team is getting. And by “hilarious,” I mean “vomit-inducing.”
by g r a c e on Jan 21, 2009 4:20 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I wish there was a team ranked 16th in its conference so we could also fall behind quickly to them. We may not be the worst team in the league, but we sure do like losing to ’em.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 21, 2009 4:23 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
It’s hilarious how pleasantly surprised the Islanders’ announcers are at all the chances their team is getting.
Ever been in some 21st-century big box store and suffered through their miserable in-store soundtrack while you can’t find the one item you’re looking for? Then you get to the car, where even talk radio is a relief?
This period is like that for Isles followers: “Wow! Talk radio! Isn’t this refreshing?! Brilliant!”
Lighthouse Hockey: an SB Nation New York Islanders blog with hip issues.
by Dominik on Jan 21, 2009 4:53 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Here’s a link that shows that Dominik tells the truth.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 21, 2009 4:55 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
This is becoming really, really difficult to watch.
by g r a c e on Jan 21, 2009 4:33 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
It’s not even that much fun to not watch. How I’m supposed to get anything done with this boxscore pissing me off is beyond me.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 21, 2009 4:35 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
J.S. Giguere
One goddamn win in the last five goddamn weeks.
But just so we have the story straight — I’m sure Carlyle just pulled him so that he’d get used to that ASG-grind of having to play one period.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 21, 2009 4:43 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
“Yann Danis, easily having his best game of the season tonight!”
Sigh.
by g r a c e on Jan 21, 2009 5:29 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Better than his one other game?
(it may be more, but I’m not bothering to look it up).
OK, on my way home now. Should get to see the Ducks’ end-of-game-excuses in person.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 21, 2009 5:57 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
this is insane
GO DUCKS!! Girlwithapuck.blogspot.com
by SK eleven on Jan 21, 2009 6:27 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Well, at least it’s not new. About as insane as it’s been for the last month.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 21, 2009 6:32 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
a shame really. i just don’t get it.
GO DUCKS!! Girlwithapuck.blogspot.com
by SK eleven on Jan 21, 2009 6:36 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Once again, the Ducks help another struggling team. Islanders break an 8 game losing streak, to get their first win in 2009.
Now, who’s going to return the favor for the Ducks???
by g r a c e on Jan 21, 2009 6:34 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
embarassing, that’s really all it is
GO DUCKS!! Girlwithapuck.blogspot.com
by SK eleven on Jan 21, 2009 6:31 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
“What’s a ‘trigger finger’?”
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 21, 2009 6:32 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
how many pills?
GO DUCKS!! Girlwithapuck.blogspot.com
by SK eleven on Jan 21, 2009 6:36 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Can ducks committ seppuku?
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.
by brokenyard on Jan 21, 2009 6:43 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Apparently they can, on back-to-back nights, even.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 21, 2009 6:46 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
So this plan of playing desperate when down by a couple of goals — I think we should apply that to scoreless games, too!
But let’s wait a few more games before learning that lesson, dammit. Fuck — I hope all the players get grounded by their dads tonight.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 21, 2009 6:37 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
man! how many teams are looking forward to an evening against the Ducks right now!?
GO DUCKS!! Girlwithapuck.blogspot.com
by SK eleven on Jan 21, 2009 6:37 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Yea, we saw how well desperate has worked for them
GO DUCKS!! Girlwithapuck.blogspot.com
by SK eleven on Jan 21, 2009 6:38 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
So I suppose the burning question becomes...
…will J.S. Giguere last a full 20 minutes in the ASG, or will Coach McLellan pull him early?
I know what the answer would be if the ASG result were meaningful…
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 21, 2009 6:43 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Is the MLB All-Star game considered meaningful? It determines home-field in the World Series… but does the game itself really matter? I’d say it still doesn’t.
So the NHL All-Star game is especially worthless.
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.
by brokenyard on Jan 21, 2009 6:45 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
wonder if he’s feeling awful enough to pull himself out of it?
GO DUCKS!! Girlwithapuck.blogspot.com
by SK eleven on Jan 21, 2009 6:47 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I dunno, he was super pissed after getting pulled.
by g r a c e on Jan 21, 2009 6:49 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
i haven’t watched it yet (don’t plan on it either to be quite honest). But I’m not surprised. He should be pissed. I’m finding it hard to have sympathy.
GO DUCKS!! Girlwithapuck.blogspot.com
by SK eleven on Jan 21, 2009 6:50 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
He threw a Grade-A fit, smashed his stick, stomped around, threw helmet/water bottle/towels. Festerling and Mikkelson (I think) had the misfortune to be at his end of the bench, and the could not scoot away fast enough. It was tragicomedy.
by g r a c e on Jan 21, 2009 7:02 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Frankly, I’d rather he went. I think I’d like to see some time of Jiggy playing net when it’s not so directly consequential to our standings position. Normally I’m not a fan of sending players to a meaningless game (I wouldn’t object if Scott or Getzlaf pulled out), but the way Jiggy’s going right now I’d rather he played through some of it for the western all-stars.
Besides, I’m half-convinced that his struggles and the ASG nomination are related (though his dad died, too). I think the anticipation of the game has been a big distraction — may as well see it through now.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 21, 2009 6:51 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I’m half-convinced that his struggles and the ASG nomination are related
I’m glad you’re only 1/2 convinced. That’s a pathetic excuse!
GO DUCKS!! Girlwithapuck.blogspot.com
by SK eleven on Jan 21, 2009 6:53 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I haven’t watched an MLB World Series since the year the Angels won it, but I think in that instance, home field mattered a lot. I believe it was the first year that they had rule? But I could be way off on that — baseball’s some other blogger’s gig, I’m sure.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 21, 2009 6:48 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
maybe this team should give baseball a try. They couldn’t be any worse could they?
GO DUCKS!! Girlwithapuck.blogspot.com
by SK eleven on Jan 21, 2009 6:51 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I’m telling you, one April Fools day… the Ducks need to show up wearing Angels uniforms and the Angels show up wearing Ducks uniforms. I’m not sure if the baseball season starts by then, but it has to happen.
Or at least switch announcers… Rex Hudler as color commentary for the Ducks? You can’t beat that.
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.
by brokenyard on Jan 21, 2009 6:53 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Well I'm off
to go see ol man Eastwood yelling at kids to keep off his lawn, goddamn it! The Ducks could probably use a week long break about now, shake this losing trend off.
You know what I blame this losing on? Marchant’s pinky injury.
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.
by brokenyard on Jan 21, 2009 6:57 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
what now sleeklster?
after losing to the patheric islanders are you on my trade ship yet?
i didnt watch it….just turned it on for a sec halfway thru the 2nd period…i wish i didnt
go lakers go steelers!!!
El Spade-o
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Jan 22, 2009 7:31 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Still not convinced, Spade. Aside from scoreboard, the Ducks sounded like they killed most of that game (once they got desperate) — I don’t know that a panic trade is the best course of action, though I wonder at how long Brian Burke would sit and watch this keep happening.
Anyways, I mentioned it in the comments of one of the fanposts, but I did make a new PuckToon today, based on Giguere’s recent struggles. Enjoy!
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 22, 2009 7:47 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I wouldnt call it a panic trade i would call it a wake up call…firing the coach wouldnt help because for some reason i think its the players more than the system and/or coach…..maybe im wrong..maybe hes lost the locker room…but i suspect its the players….
someone needs to get shipped out of importance to wake these fuckers up…someone that would shock the players….scotty nieds, gigere, parros….(just kidding on the last one…no way u trade the stache) u trade them for draft picks and a servicable D man
best case scenario it works and the team gets on its horse and does some damage
worst case we pile draft picks and not make the playoffs and shed more salary and re-load next summer
the current course is painful to be honest
El Spade-o
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Jan 22, 2009 8:47 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
best case scenario it works and the team gets on its horse and does some damage
worst case we pile draft picks and not make the playoffs and shed more salary and re-load next summer
I suppose, but I don’t really see why those best and worst cases don’t apply to the team right now. There doesn’t seem to be any additional gain — just lateral movement, I guess.
Well, Kevin Y just shot me some rumor about the Ducks possibly dealing Pronger — to which I say: Shrug. As always, it depends on the return.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 22, 2009 9:26 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Speaking of 'toons...
…only really bad ones this time: I stole a few lunchtime minutes on a coworker’s computer and scratched up this. Laughably pathetic, but that’s what results from a skill deficiency (kind of like an 08-09 Islanders game). Always wanted to use Long Island as a weapon; plus, I knew the chances of this metro sweep ever happening again were slim.

Now excuse me while I rinse off for having found a bright side to a Rangers win.
Lighthouse Hockey: an SB Nation New York Islanders blog with hip issues.
by Dominik on Jan 22, 2009 3:42 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, is this new? Heh, I just saw it and assumed I was negligent.
I was about to put it in the fanposts — because frankly, these have been awfully one-sided recently. I still might.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 22, 2009 3:46 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Well, Kevin Y just shot me some rumor about the Ducks possibly dealing Pronger — to which I say: Shrug. As always, it depends on the return.
I’m not on board with losing expereince right now.
GO DUCKS!! Girlwithapuck.blogspot.com
by SK eleven on Jan 22, 2009 10:14 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Funny how I haven’t heard anyone mention Giguere’s pads on the various boards I peruse on the “internets” lately. LOL
That’s positivity! Right??!?
Don't bRuin your life. Make love with a Trojan
by Morbo on Jan 22, 2009 3:22 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
The fact that my liver still works is also a very practical example of positivity.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Jan 22, 2009 3:46 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Okay, so now that I’ve had some time to think it over, I’m seeing a little silver lining in losing to the Islanders last night. Well, not so much a silver lining, but here it goes: I’m okay with them losing last night because it just pounds home how awful they’ve been. They have to spend the entire All-Star break thinking it over. If they had won, they might have been lulled into thinking, “Hey, it’s not so bad. We ended on a good note.” No. I want them to be miserable. I want this to be rock bottom.
Maybe, just maybe, they’ll get their act together and play at their ability level after the break. That next game against Phoenix is a great opportunity for the Ducks to start turning this season around.
This is the closest I can get to positivity.
by g r a c e on Jan 22, 2009 6:09 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Earlier in this post I commented that “The Ducks could probably use a week long break about now, shake this losing trend off.”
You basically said what I said, just better and in more detail.
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.
by brokenyard on Jan 22, 2009 6:40 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

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