Ducks Gameday -- Fourth Line Pressure!
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 8:41 AM PST
165 comments
Pittsburgh Penguins (11-3-0) at Anaheim Ducks (4-6-2), 7 pm
Avian expertise: Anaheim Calling on the Ducks and Pensburgh on the Penguins.
Boy, this should be exciting. Pittsburgh, the team with the most wins in the league (yay!), comes to town to play Anaheim, the team with the fewest wins in the west (groan). And I'm going to be there, wearing the lucky green shirt in Row B (yaaaay!) along with my parents (groooooaaaan). Could be an extremely long night.
There's plenty to talk about today -- the two-game suspension of James Wisniewski (apparently for hitting an Olympian during an Olympic year), the waiving of Eric Christensen (apparently for not making his teammates compete hard enough), the return of Chris Kunitz to Anaheim (who stunningly now has two postseason goals over the past three years, and two Stanley Cup rings to show for it), and the enigma known as Cotton Gin playing against his old team. Feel free to discuss any of that in the comments.
* * *
Instead of tackling any of those topics, though, I want to take a few moments and reminisce about one former Mighty Duck who's making a return to Anaheim tonight -- Pittsburgh head coach Dan Bylsma. Bylsma played nine seasons in the league entirely for "BoC South" -- five seasons in L.A. followed by four in Anaheim, all pretty much as a fourth-line/penalty-killing forward.
He wasn't flashy or glamorous, wasn't huge or fast, and rarely made his mark on the scoresheet, but was quite smart and efficient -- he made smart Marchant-type plays that kept the puck away from his own end. And while my memories are faded, I'll always remember the nickname I assigned him -- "Fourth Line Pressure!" You see, in Anaheim at least, Bylsma was inserted on a depth line usually with some kid (Marc Chouinard, say) and some fighter, and they usually played spare energy shifts. But it seemed consistently, Bylsma was able to help that line keep its head above water -- they taught me the value of 45-second offensive-zone cycles, and how useful an energy line could really be.
Yeah, I'm probably over-glamorizing a bit based on selective memory, but there were definitely times when a Bylsma fourth line would come out and have a monumental shift -- it'd rarely result with a puck in either net, but they played an honest, hard-working game, and would really put pressure on their opposition. And Bylsma carried that same attitude on the PK -- worked hard, used the boards, and generally was a reassuring player to have on the ice.
Now I don't want to overstate things -- when I asked my Kings pal about Bylsma's time in L.A. he gave me a solid "meh" shoulder shrug, and history shows he wasn't an essential player (Bylsma didn't appear in the 2003 postseason until Patric Kjellberg left the team, but he was a +3 in the last two rounds). But he was definitely a serviceable player -- a very useful plugger who could legitimize a fourth-line shift.
And that's almost why I think he's got the tools to be a fantastic head coach, though I don't really watch enough Pittsburgh games to verify. There's an odd feature about sports, I think, in that the best players rarely turn out to become the best coaches. Wayne Gretzky, for instance -- there's little to suggest he was a capable bench boss. Some of that may be psychological, but I think there's some decent rationale why role players make better coaches -- after all, who really needs the coaching, the top-line superstars or the fourth-line grinders? Seems to me that a guy like Bylsma who made his living in non-glamorous minutes has a better understanding of how to coach non-superstars, and to me that's a key element to winning. Crosby and Malkin (latter is injured tonight) can play well under most anybody -- it's the supporting cast that usually makes the difference in how well a team finishes.
Again, this is just idle speculation -- there may be entirely different reasons why Bylsma is succeeding as a head coach and Gretzky has failed (yes, personnel is more than valid). But generally, I'm not surprised at either outcome -- Bylsma was Mr. "Fourth Line Pressure!" as a player, seems he'd be an ideal guy to teach it to the new generation of kids; it's one of the reasons I look at a guy like Todd Marchant and see a potential future NHL coach. (Note: I really don't know where to put Randy Carlyle on this Bylsma-to-Gretzky player scale. He was never a guy I saw play. But it's open for discussion, too.)
So anyways, tonight I'm sure the Honda Center will have some Chris Kunitz montage moment, and I'll definitely stand and applaud for Kunitz -- he was a phenomenal bargain of hustle, grit, and character for the Ducks. But I'll also be partially applauding for Dan "Fourth Line Pressure!" Bylsma, too (I'm guessing they won't have a Bylsma montage -- too many Disney logos). Congrats on a fantastic start to your coaching career, Dan, and thanks for the hustle, grit, and character you brought to an earlier Ducks team. In a sense, you were my first Pahlsson.
Fourth line pressure! Let's hope to see some tonight.
Prediction: Ducks win? Could happen. Regardless, Sleek feels uncomfortable behaving in front of his parents.
Go Ducks.
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Thanks for mentioning where your seats are, if you want to say where you are afterwards I am sure Pensblog Charlie can come by….
by yeah_eric on Nov 3, 2009 9:00 AM PST via mobile reply actions 0 recs
Don’t Pensblog readers usually open with “FIRST!” Bad form.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 9:05 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Touche…Now that the Pens are in SoCal, maybe someone can arrange for Charlie to meet Psycho Mike from KROQ. They would be a perfect couple.
by yeah_eric on Nov 3, 2009 9:53 AM PST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
Can’t help you out there, but if fate has a sense of justice, I’m sure it’ll happen of its own accord.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 10:10 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
they comedy with that whole Pensblog Charlie angle they do…funny funny shit…
i like the “too many men” thing they do too..funny
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 3, 2009 10:17 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
so the 20 dollar jack n cokes will be at a minumum tonite? maybe only 2?
i was telling sk…the whiz suspension sux cuz unfortunatly our d has been as bad as we thought..taking out competent D men (we all agree hes at least that) and probally our only physical D man is crippling…especally against the high scoring pens..
as u guys know i get to watch a lot of pens games cuz of my roomates..and its comical to watch how easy it is for them to score..u watch and never get a sense that there out of any game…the complete opposite feeling when u watch our proud ducks
my roomate will be there so lookout for a huge white guy with a crosby jersey…kinda looks like ben rothslisburger but stouter (im choosing my words carefully in case he reads) hes one of those violent drunks that punches thru car windows when hes had a few…everyone stayclear…
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 3, 2009 9:07 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, what’s going to probably be unfortunate about the Wiz suspension is that it will probably leave Whitney exposed tonight, and playing against his old team, Cotton Gin might try to do too much.
And with the folks? I’ll probably just have a couple of beers. If the Ducks drive me to hard drinking, it will be late night.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 9:13 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
not sure its a "if: you will be driven to hard drinking…a getzlaf turnover here and there…youll be throwing back a bottle of whiskey
only sliver of hope..we play up to competion at times…so maybe theres that
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 3, 2009 9:19 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Well, I guess my pregame silver lining is that there’s no way I can see the Ducks give two points to a western conference team tonight. That’s a nice change.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 9:22 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Oh yeah, plus since games are now an hour later, I can check on the theory of whether our tendency to not play first periods has ended.
C’mon, November.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 9:24 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I’d like to register a ‘disagree’ on Wisniewski’s competence.
by Arthur from Anaheim Calling on Nov 3, 2009 9:25 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
is that like the disagree about if san diego is named after saint deigo or a whales vagina?….
agree to disagree!!
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 3, 2009 9:28 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
9 assists in 9 games and a team-leading plus-6.
It may not be competence, but I’ll take it.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 9:31 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
His mental mistakes will eventually come at key moments, like they did in the last game. Granted, Boynton did the same thing earlier in the game, but I guarantee, if he’s even healthy enough to play a majority of this season, we will suffer more at the hands of the brain farts of one James wisniewski
by Arthur from Anaheim Calling on Nov 3, 2009 9:55 AM PST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
Probably true, but it seems that his presence helps Whitney to some degree — certainly seems less scary than Whitney and anybody else.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 10:04 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
i was about to say that..look at whiz compared to everyone else but scotty…
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 3, 2009 10:08 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
If you’re looking at stats, scotty’s actually not doing so hot, and wiz missed a few losses.
But i’m not talking stats, I’m talking decision making. He hasn’t been burned on the board as often as he probably should have been, but Ozo was afforded that same grace for stretches in his career. Hate to say it, but when he misse that that icing was waved off, I wasn’t at all surprised. His hockey sense disappears without warning, why would his on-ice awareness be any different
by Arthur from Anaheim Calling on Nov 3, 2009 10:20 AM PST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
nobody is “hot” per se…the ducks right now are a big pile of smelly unwashed underwear right now…and whiz is one of the underwear that doesnt smell as bad as the others and u cant throw on real quick cuz your late for work…this is all hypothetical of course Ive never had to make this descision
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 3, 2009 10:25 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
meant can…remind me to kick earl in the balls when i see him for nto having an edit button..i know its not his fault probally but someone has to pay
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 3, 2009 10:26 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
What? You’re not excited that the SBN tech team did this fancy site re-design instead of addressing your needs? :)
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 10:29 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
now that you mentioned it…
I don’t like it.
GO DUCKS!!!
DUCKSandPUCKS.com
SKeleven on Twitter
by SK eleven on Nov 3, 2009 10:29 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Shrug — it’s a little weird, but I do approve of the amount of work and effort it took from me (none).
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 10:31 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
i second that…yahoo changed there homepage also…motherfuckers
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 3, 2009 10:32 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
and wiz missed a few losses
And Wiz was missed in a few losses.
Yeah, he can get retarded, but from a comparative standpoint, I can’t tell you who on our blueline is playing any better, nor am I excited to see what happens again without him. You’re right, that play last game was beyond awful, but there’s a long list of problems with Anaheim and Wisniewski doesn’t seem to be the biggest.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 10:28 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I’ll give you the comparative value, but that would also make ME a comparatively competent NHL defenseman.
I hate to capitalize on your vitriol for Hayward, but no one covers more for wisniewski than that guy. His miscue last game was the first time I’d heard wisniewski and mistake in the same sentence from Hayward. He has an atrocious game back from injury, falling down TWICE and making bad passes but he plays the most min in a loss so Hayzie says player of the game. He abandons the net to go into a scrum in the corner last year in consecutive games. Both plays result in front of the net goals. Hayzie says, “if you’re going to go into the corner, you have to be sure you can leave with the puck,” making no mention of the deja wiz.
Undue wisniewski praise or spin is up there with “living right” and “bounces going [x]’s way” in things il tired of the broadcast team saying.
by Arthur from Anaheim Calling on Nov 3, 2009 10:51 AM PST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
Also of comparative value: hanging with my folks will be a drag, but they’re better than Hayward and Ahlers. I’m already more excited!
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 10:53 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
i think “living right” is the most annoying thing they say…i smell a poll
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 3, 2009 11:07 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
you were my first Pahlsson
Is that the Sleek equivalent of “you complete me,” because I felt almost voyeuristic reading it?
by Arthur from Anaheim Calling on Nov 3, 2009 9:23 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Well, I probably should have added “You were a Pahlsson Lite” — it was back before I was shamefully obsessive.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 9:29 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I think in general, it’s the defensively-aware players that understand the game and are in a better position to teach it. Sure, Gretzky eventually had to learn to play in his own zone, but it was never an essential part of his game. Randy Carlyle had to be smart and aware in order to earn that Norris Trophy, and Dan Bylsma had to be smart and aware just to keep his job. Hell, look at Jacques Lemaire: he was offensively talented, but he also had to serve as the defensive conscience of his line with Steve Shutt and Guy Lafleur, because do you really think Lafleur’s going to backcheck?
SNN Sports - A theoretical Oilers blog (i.e. theoretically, I write stuff there). Link now 100% less broken.
by Doogie2K on Nov 3, 2009 9:28 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Randy Carlyle had tobe smart and awareplay in the eastern time zone in order to earn that Norris Trophy
Fixed. :)
But yes — I agree on your overall point. Now somebody remind me — how good a backchecker was Joe Sacco? I have even vaguer memories of that guy in a Mighty Ducks uniform, except one — he did score an overtime goal against Eddie Belfour and the Stars once where after the game Belfour was convinced that the goal had been scored by Selanne.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 9:38 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I just remember he had speed and would never ever score and it used to piss me off
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 3, 2009 9:39 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
O i think he had a brother who played with us too…yea not very fond memories of joe sacco
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 3, 2009 9:44 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Huh, I thought Carlyle won in Winnipeg, but he didn’t go there until 1984. You learn something new every day.
SNN Sports - A theoretical Oilers blog (i.e. theoretically, I write stuff there). Link now 100% less broken.
by Doogie2K on Nov 3, 2009 9:42 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Lol that’s going to be an awkward thing… watching the game with your parents… will you utter swear words and such in front of them? I dunno, I couldn’t :/
by AppleSweetRose on Nov 3, 2009 9:43 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
well sleek you got your mama to clean up the nacho cheese that drips on your chin…be a glasses half full kinda guy
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 3, 2009 9:45 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
And my dad will pay for everything tonight — there’s upside.
But no swearing, no debauchery — it’ll be a Lady Byng performance tonight.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 9:51 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
yea forgot that angle about youll be covered for expenses..just sneak away and drink in vestibule areas….if your dad asks why do u need so much green..just say your on a dr pepper rush..just cant enough
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 3, 2009 9:54 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, my dad will be drinking beer, I don’t need to sneak away for that — just am limited in what I can do with that power.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 10:02 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
i know challenge him to a drinking contest..tell him half irish guys can outdrinhk full irish guys…that could be a proposal he cant refuse…your mom might put the brakes on that though
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 3, 2009 10:04 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Well, I think part of the reason I’m invited is to help my dad drink without so much nag — I can help him out there.
But yeah, she’ll only tolerate so much. I think she was raised in a monastery.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 10:07 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, hopefully...
You’ll get on tv again, and someone can catch another gif of you again :p
by AppleSweetRose on Nov 3, 2009 9:44 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
im gonna ask my roomate to do if hes in a giving mood….i might need someone to show me how to upload the file though
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 3, 2009 9:46 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
lucky green shirt in Row B
How lucky has that shirt been lately?
Might it just be, “green shirt” now?
GO DUCKS!!!
DUCKSandPUCKS.com
SKeleven on Twitter
by SK eleven on Nov 3, 2009 9:53 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
change to red shirt sleek…need to throw off the Boc papparazzi…dye your hair blonde also
and plus like sk said not much luck..
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 3, 2009 9:58 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
It’s only 0-1 this season, worked for me plenty last postseason.
I’m not abandoning it just yet, though.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 10:01 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Early season games aren’t important to the Ducks, so why should they affect your confidence in the shirt? :)
When I'm not battling in California:
Cycle Like The Sedins
by jamestobrien on Nov 3, 2009 10:39 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, besides, I don’t know how well it’d go over if I went back to my Disney VISHNEVSKI jersey — it’s my only shirt with the new logo on it, I believe.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 10:45 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, except for the orange-out t-shirts they gave out at the season opener of the 2006-07 season, but those are a bit boisterous.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 10:46 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
i still got one of those..i think i just discarded it…hey i love the ducks but i dont want to look like one of those dudes picking up trash on the freeways
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 3, 2009 10:47 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I have two of them — my Kings buddy didn’t want any part of his.
It’s not useless, though — when I put it on it’s a nice loud reminder to do some damn laundry.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 10:51 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
For some reason I have owned a shirt with a picture of a shady looking old bearded man for some time now. It serves the laundry reminder purpose for me.
Ah, found a picture of the dude on a Finnish stamp. I’d venture that most people wouldn’t want to wear this guy, and, for good measure, the shirt picture is a black-and-white drawing of dubious quality.
by Malurous on Nov 3, 2009 11:29 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
yea, cause green isn’t at all obvious in a sea of black and white.
That game that you said you might attend in the nosebleeds, I told Grace about it at the game…we both started hunting green shirts and spotted like 5 immediately…of course none were you.
GO DUCKS!!!
DUCKSandPUCKS.com
SKeleven on Twitter
by SK eleven on Nov 3, 2009 10:48 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, it’s catching on. Used to be quite distinct, now it seems more people want in on the two or three free drinks it’s ever gotten me.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 10:50 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Oh I just meant that they were easy to spot.
But hey…who doesn’t want to be Sleek?! :)
GO DUCKS!!!
DUCKSandPUCKS.com
SKeleven on Twitter
by SK eleven on Nov 3, 2009 10:54 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
But hey…who doesn’t want to be Sleek?! :)
This season? I’m sure there’s a long list. :)
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 10:56 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
i caught the sleek wearing green shirt bug..i wore one to the last ducks-sharks game i attended…i felt smarter and all the sudden i could sing and had the urge to drink jack double shots n coke…it was weird
p.s.
to further lionize sleek it was a guiness shirt..to pay tribute to his irishness
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 3, 2009 11:06 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
And that’s probably what I’ll be drinking tonight. I’m like the Dos Equis guy — I don’t usually drink beer, but when I do, it’s a Guinness.
Except for that whole “most interesting man in the universe” thing…
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 11:13 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
u didnt have an awkward moment? just to see how it felt?
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 3, 2009 11:19 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Nope — never met Pahlsson in person.
That was the question, right?
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 11:24 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I would LOVED to have seen that happen.
GO DUCKS!!!
DUCKSandPUCKS.com
SKeleven on Twitter
by SK eleven on Nov 3, 2009 11:27 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
i think u might start humping his leg..that would be akward
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 3, 2009 12:46 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
0-1 this season
I’d agree that is no strong indictment of the green shirt.
Besides, whenever I’ve been near the green shirt good things happened to me.
Maybe you’ll being is some really good luck and Cotton Gin will sustain a season ending turf toe injury.
by GordonBombay on Nov 3, 2009 11:48 AM PST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
I forgot — another storyline tonight is that it features the top two picks from the 2005 NHL Entry Draft — Bobby Ryan at #2 and some Sid kid at #1.
Right now they are separated by 334 career points, but I don’t mind the sheltering of B-Ry thus far. Very interested to know how far apart their cap hits will be next year.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 11:58 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Thanks for remembering…cause I thought I was the only one who found any interest in this part of the match-up!
It IS the first one right? I mean, I know we played them last year, but that kid guy was out…and obviously before that we had no Bobby Ryan. I’m just checking.
GO DUCKS!!!
DUCKSandPUCKS.com
SKeleven on Twitter
by SK eleven on Nov 3, 2009 12:13 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, looks like it. Ducks have played the Pens three times since the lockout — Sid played in the first two, got one assist each time. B-Ry played in last season’s, also with one assist.
But this should be the first time both have played.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 12:21 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Their Cup hits? Well, Sid took a LOT of hits from the Cup this summer…
Oh, you said CAP hits! My bad!
by yeah_eric on Nov 3, 2009 1:10 PM PST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
Whoa, SBN did something different, didn’t they …. don’t tell me — it’s the curtains. Curtains definitely look different up in here.
Somewhat disappointed about Wizzhisface since I just picked him up off waivers. I will probably (and unjustifiably) use this as another reason to dislike the Ducks.
www.thetripledeke.blogspot.com
by TDTyler on Nov 3, 2009 12:17 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
I had to read it on another site (I’m not the best at reading SBN e-mails), but apparently this new version loads faster or something.
Wizzhisface
We definitely accept “Wiz” or “The Wizard”. The Ducks have been acquiring lots of tough-to-spell names (Wisniewski, Nokelainen, Artyukhin) — that’s probably some grounds for detesting Anaheim.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 12:25 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
By god you’re right … even Corey Perry has that tricky “e” in his first name. I never realized this angle of hatred before. It’s like you’re Aladdin and you just took me on a magic carpet ride. (don’t tell anyone I said that.)
www.thetripledeke.blogspot.com
by TDTyler on Nov 3, 2009 12:35 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
And even Christensen spells his name in the most peculiar way possible.
And yet the player name I abbreviate most these days is B-Ry. Go figure.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 12:41 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
VERY FUNNY
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 3, 2009 12:45 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
It’s like you’re Aladdin and you just took me on a magic carpet ride.
That’s probably what Earl would say if he ever met Pahlsson in person.
by Malurous on Nov 3, 2009 1:25 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Didn’t see this until now, but the OC Register’s Mark Whicker had a nice piece on Dan Bylsma’s career today, too. With actual Bylsma quotes!
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 12:37 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Mmk why does SB Nation look all weird.
Lol, just kidding. This post was a complete lie.
by brokenyard on Nov 3, 2009 3:15 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
SB Nation: Now brought to you by the color white.
Why, exactly? Not sure. I’d have to start reading the SB Nation e-mails to find that out.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 3:49 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe they’re trying to make room for Spades edit button.
GO DUCKS!!!
DUCKSandPUCKS.com
SKeleven on Twitter
by SK eleven on Nov 3, 2009 4:07 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
they got nasa working on it
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 3, 2009 4:12 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
They’ll add the button but forty years from now people will claim it was never there?
by Malurous on Nov 3, 2009 4:52 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Alrighty, gang — I’m off to meet the folks, hoping they didn’t pick today to start reading their BoC. If I’m inspired, I may throw in a comment or two from the game, but no promises.
Go green shirt go.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 5:13 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
what the hell are they wearing?
hooked on quack
by tu madre on Nov 3, 2009 7:02 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
I was thinking the same thing! Military camouflage??
by g r a c e on Nov 3, 2009 7:03 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
back to the regulars. wtf? i’m confused.
hooked on quack
by tu madre on Nov 3, 2009 7:09 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I think the footage was from practice, so…practice jerseys? Still weird. I’m on the Pens’ feed, so there wasn’t any comment about it.
by g r a c e on Nov 3, 2009 7:10 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
must of been practice.
hooked on quack
by tu madre on Nov 3, 2009 7:12 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
jerseys are for Operation Homefront. they will sign them and auction them off at saturdays game.
hooked on quack
by tu madre on Nov 3, 2009 7:36 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Ah. Thanks for clearing that up for me!
by g r a c e on Nov 3, 2009 7:37 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
not to shabby.
not to jinx it, but I like our scoring chances so far this period.
Carter, that was a stupid penalty.
hooked on quack
by tu madre on Nov 3, 2009 7:28 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
fuck, i jinxed it. fuck. my bad.
lets go PK.
hooked on quack
by tu madre on Nov 3, 2009 7:39 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Wow. Don’t know whether to be annoyed about the penalties or thrilled about the PK.
by g r a c e on Nov 3, 2009 7:43 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Ha. The Pens’ announcers are talking about how, with so many Pittsburgh PPs in the 1st, it’s sure to go the other way in the 2nd and 3rd. Clearly, they have not been watching the Ducks for the last few seasons.
by g r a c e on Nov 3, 2009 7:58 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Damn. And after such a great shift, too.
by g r a c e on Nov 3, 2009 8:04 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Not that I would ever wish for the Ducks or Kings to win a game, but … would be nice if the BoC can give the Penguins a nice raping while they are in Ca … :)
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality? (boycott Hollywood!)
by ang6666 on Nov 3, 2009 8:15 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Oof. You may be counting unhatched chickens.
by g r a c e on Nov 3, 2009 8:18 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I always do!
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality? (boycott Hollywood!)
by ang6666 on Nov 3, 2009 8:20 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
on an added note, my life would be perfect if life would go according to my plan!! … clearly that isnt’ working here …
still time tho
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality? (boycott Hollywood!)
by ang6666 on Nov 3, 2009 8:20 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
there is always plan B.
hooked on quack
by tu madre on Nov 3, 2009 8:21 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Tyler Kennedy looks like those pig people in that one Twilight Zone episode.
by g r a c e on Nov 3, 2009 8:17 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
he’s on fire. pass the puck to Perry.
hooked on quack
by tu madre on Nov 3, 2009 8:29 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Perry to the Team Canada Coach (Babcock?): Pick me.
by g r a c e on Nov 3, 2009 8:31 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I’m stoked for the olympics. go USA.
hooked on quack
by tu madre on Nov 3, 2009 8:34 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Hey gang. Two shocking revelations tonight: one, Bobby Ryan up close has a fair amount of acne, and two, there’s now a Beatles Yellow Submarine blimp that follows the Serta lamb around.
And three, the fact that this game is tied after two. Go Perry.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 8:43 PM PST via mobile reply actions 0 recs
Bobby Ryan should use Getzlaf’s shampoo for his face, that shit seems to make skin anywhere as smooth as a babies butt.
What do the Ducks have to do with the Beatles?
hooked on quack
by tu madre on Nov 3, 2009 8:48 PM PST up reply actions 1 recs
Bobby Ryan should use Getzlaf’s shampoo for his face, that shit seems to make skin anywhere as smooth as a babies butt.
Rec’d.
by g r a c e on Nov 3, 2009 8:50 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I’m a terrible photo-taker (that’s PJ’s specialty), but here’s my submitted evidence of the floating yellow sub.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 10:38 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Woooooooooooooo! Way to answer, Koivu!!!!!
by g r a c e on Nov 3, 2009 9:04 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Carter was a mess. Should’ve given his stick to Marchant.
by g r a c e on Nov 3, 2009 9:06 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
pens doing a good job of screening hiller.
hooked on quack
by tu madre on Nov 3, 2009 9:08 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
argh. so many chances.
hooked on quack
by tu madre on Nov 3, 2009 9:27 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, Fleury’s made some big saves. And Crosby with a huge save, too.
by g r a c e on Nov 3, 2009 9:29 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Why can’t there be so many chances when the Ducks are tied or ahead?
I hate desperation effort when it so clearly contrasts with the lackluster play that puts the team into such a must-score-to-get-even bind.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 10:46 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Vomit. It’s November, and we’re already without any margin for moral victories.
That third Pens goal was a kick to the groin. So many chances to clear the puck, so many instances of Pittsburgh wanting to win more than us.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 9:42 PM PST via mobile reply actions 0 recs
did your pops buy you a few beers atleast?
hooked on quack
by tu madre on Nov 3, 2009 10:29 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, though I did have to buy one round. Hanging with the parents wasn’t so bad, until the drive back when my dad told me (probably in some sort of parental message sending): “You know, I think I’m getting past the point of caring who wins.”
Got the message, dad. Don’t worry — my reaction to soul-crushing losses is getting better each and every game.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 10:32 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
it hurts less and less with each loss. I set my self up for a loss anymore, so if we lose no big deal. sad but true.
green shirt 0-2.
hooked on quack
by tu madre on Nov 3, 2009 10:35 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
We’re all learning the skills of coping that Rudy has demonstrated for us these many years.
Worst part? Kings will make the Pens look silly on Thursday, nearly guaranteed.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 10:37 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
kings and sharks will win, and perry will break down and actually cry.
he was so close to tears in his after game interview.
hooked on quack
by tu madre on Nov 3, 2009 10:41 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I didn’t even stick around to see what resulted from Perry’s 0.6-seconds-left board. He’ll probably get suspended, the way things are going.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 3, 2009 10:43 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
We’re all learning the skills of coping that Rudy has demonstrated for us these many years.
No kidding. I’ve got the anger part. Now I need gin. Lots of gin.
by g r a c e on Nov 3, 2009 11:31 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
moral victories
Vomit. It’s November, and we’re already without any margin for moral victories.
There was that long stint at the end of the game when the Penguins just could not clear the puck out of their zone even if their babies’ shots of swine flu depended on it. There were tons of chances in that shift. Kept waiting for the Ducks to score.
And then Crosby went and made a sliding save in front of an open net.
Seriously though, that was a spiritual power play. Just really unlucky it didn’t find the net.
...Thornton to Murray. HE SCORES!!! DOUGLAS MURRAY! With his first goal of the year. What's he doing way up there??? - Randy Hahn
by DownRUpLYB on Nov 3, 2009 11:42 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
No, that is true, and I actually caught myself saying “Fourth Line Pressure” a few times for Parros-Carter-Brown shifts, they played a good game tonight.
But man, seeing the Ducks “turn it on” in desperate moments makes it rough to think back on the non-desperate moments of the game. And really, they need to find a way to clear past their blueline in less than three tries — somebody isn’t doing their job in the defensive end, and I’m starting to suspect it’s because the Ducks roster includes zero natural left wings.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 4, 2009 12:35 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
yea fuck the moral victories…this sux..had to hear my roomate the pens fan talk a lot of shit..saying our fans are pathetic (he was at the game) beating his chest at the win
fuckin ducks u ruined my year thanx fuckers
sounds like earl n fam went ok right? how much u end up drinking earl?
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 4, 2009 6:25 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Three Guinnesses, about the most that could be expected, I think.
Yeah, Pens fans were numerous, but whatever — it’s not the first or last time in sports history a fanbase has been silenced by their team’s awful play. Pittsburgh has been there, too.
If he wants to call Anaheim pathetic, well, he’s not the first. Tell him to stop quoting Kevin Lowe.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 4, 2009 8:00 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
true to form he got a ducks fan kicked out he almost fought with..hes moving out saturday so i wont have to hear it all year thank gawd
damn this loss was painful…arggg..
now what?….i guess just drunken nights watching our boys….see whos worthy to stay with us and who should be traded at the deadline…fuck
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 4, 2009 8:25 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, sucks that we lost. I thought we played a great game. It looks like things are at least starting to click a little bit. The Pens are on fire so far this year and they barely came out of Ponda Center with a victory last night. If not for a couple of amazing saves by Fluery it would have gone the other way.
On a side note, my team of asshole Ducks in NHL 10 for the first ten games went 7-3-2 without me playing a single game. Notable A-Holes on the team:
Corey Perry
Patrick Kane (There was that whole, you know, allegedly beating up a cab driver in Buffalo over 10 cents thing.)
Sean Avery
Derek Boogard
Donald Brasear
Ray Emery
Ryan Smyth (Don’t know much about him except that Rudy Kelly hates him and that he’s been playing pretty good for LA thus far.)
Steave Ott
Chris Neil
Chris Chelios (He’s leading a lesser team of a-holes in my minors right now.)
and the rest were pretty much picked by a friend of mine who knows nothing about hockey and made judgements based purley on the players name or the fact that he thought they had “stupid asshole faces.”
“O jesus! Look at that guy, I know he’s an asshole. Just look at him. Draft him.”
I have to admit, while it is just a video game, it was kind of upsetting that my team of D-Bags had a much better record then the actual Ducks. Shit, these assholes might just make the playoffs. God, that’s depressing.
by JohnQPhats on Nov 4, 2009 8:43 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
our team of assholes wont…fuck fuck fuck..so angry
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 4, 2009 8:52 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
You know, writing it out for some reason really made me realize that. Fuck indeed.
by JohnQPhats on Nov 4, 2009 9:17 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe the Pens game was our turning point. I know we lost, but there was a lot of great moments in that game.
by JohnQPhats on Nov 4, 2009 9:21 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Had I no rooting interest, it’d have been a great game — so my folks keep telling me.
And sure, any loss could be the “turning point” — but man, we’ve let a lot of turning point opportunities slip away already, not exactly sure why this will be different.
I’m depressed — I’m going to go eat some IHOP and cheer up.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 4, 2009 9:44 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
u bastard IHOP sounds good right now
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 4, 2009 9:51 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Mmm, the healing power of pancakes.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 4, 2009 10:03 AM PST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
its like a piece of heaven in your mouth…im gonna gorge on some chili fries for lunch…the ducks have wounded me and I must heal myself with bad greasy food
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 4, 2009 10:09 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
And sure, any loss could be the "turning point" — but man, we’ve let a lot of turning point opportunities slip away already, not exactly sure why this will be different.
Can’t you just let me hold on to this last sliver of hope. =P
by JohnQPhats on Nov 4, 2009 9:55 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
No worries, I fully support positivity. Just can’t muster much personally this year, it seems.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 4, 2009 10:04 AM PST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
No worries, I fully support positivity. Just can’t muster much personally this year, it seems.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PS5CJOwyh9s
:shrug:
by JohnQPhats on Nov 4, 2009 11:06 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
Hahaha, that was awesome. Between that and IHOP, my mood is improving.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 4, 2009 11:20 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Possibly one of the funniest short films I’ve ever seen.
by JohnQPhats on Nov 4, 2009 11:39 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
damn work blocking videos!! i want to be amused….son of a bitch!!
my greasy french fries were good yummy!
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 4, 2009 12:31 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
poor you!! … (ha ha!)
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality? (boycott Hollywood!)
by ang6666 on Nov 4, 2009 1:02 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
your smypathy is noted…appreciated..and well timed
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 4, 2009 1:13 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
omg! hilarious!
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality? (boycott Hollywood!)
by ang6666 on Nov 4, 2009 11:41 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
thanks john. that was awesome.
hooked on quack
by tu madre on Nov 4, 2009 12:32 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Figured we could all use a pick me up. I have links to others for when we really end up in the basement of the Pacific Division. =P
by JohnQPhats on Nov 4, 2009 1:26 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
when we really end up there?..your telling me it could get worse aaaaaaaahhhh
have those links ready
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 4, 2009 2:02 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Too fucking funny. Do you know if these folks went on to do anything else?
Fear The Fin: Where Selling Your Soul Is The Likely Solution
by Mr. Plank on Nov 4, 2009 1:52 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I remember reading something about the director/writer getting a big time writing gig for something about robots…..I think.
by JohnQPhats on Nov 4, 2009 2:05 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Colin Trevorrow is the director/writers name. Judging by his IMDB he didn’t do much. Looks like the main actor did a bunch fo stuff though. Looks like he was on Mad Men at one point and he’s going to be in a series called Life UneXpected in 2010. Looks like that was the last thing the girl who played his girlfriend did (Bridget Nelson).
by JohnQPhats on Nov 4, 2009 2:11 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
……It LOOKS LIKE a lot of stuff happened. I started to write a post making fun of this post, then I realized I was the idiot who wrote it. =P
by JohnQPhats on Nov 4, 2009 2:13 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Hey, what do you know? My Kings-rooting roommate will be moving out of my place a week from Saturday, so I guess our upside is less people pointing out our team’s deficiencies — hurray!
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on Nov 4, 2009 8:44 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
amen to that
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 4, 2009 8:51 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
my roomate/cunucks fan is moving out at the end of the month.
hooked on quack
by tu madre on Nov 4, 2009 12:32 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Just read a fan post over at Anaheim Calling about rumors of a marchant trade.
hooked on quack
by tu madre on Nov 4, 2009 1:08 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
yay…trade away more defensive players…not like we need them…
Ducks blow old goats right now but....GO DUCKS!!! for shits and giggles!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on Nov 4, 2009 1:14 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
The one night that I am actually rooting for the Ducks
sigh….I tuned in for the 3rd period and was ever so hopeful….
by hockeychic on Nov 4, 2009 1:18 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
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Pacific Standings
| GP | W | L | OTL | PT | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
San Jose
|
58 | 38 | 11 | 9 | 85 |
|
Los Angeles
|
58 | 36 | 19 | 3 | 75 |
|
Phoenix
|
59 | 35 | 19 | 5 | 75 |
|
Dallas
|
58 | 26 | 21 | 11 | 63 |
|
Anaheim
|
58 | 27 | 24 | 7 | 61 |
(updated 2.8.2010 at 5:30 AM PST)
3 years old and counting!
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.
