Ducks Gameday—Glimmers of hope for the depressed Ducks fan, round 2
Anaheim Ducks (8th in west) at Detroit Red Wings (2nd in west)
JavaGeek Odds: DET 68%
Winging It In Motown, or for the braver, there's A2Y. And don't forget Anaheim Calling vs. IAmJoe over at CLS.
And just like that, it's round two.
Losing a seven-game series to the Red Wings sucks. Or at least best as I can remember it from a decade ago, but I'm pretty sure it's true. And with the forward depth and experience that Detroit boasts, even the most optimistic Ducks fan has to be pretty worried about Anaheim's chances.
It's not just that Detroit swept Columbus in the first round -- that seems tolerable -- but the Blue Jackets never led a game even once. That speaks to preparation and execution, and if Detroit isn't looking past Columbus in the first round, they certainly won't be looking past the Ducks. Too many Red Wings remember 2007, and frankly 2003, for that possibility.
On paper, it seems the Ducks are screwed. Thankfully, though, they don't play these games on paper. Ducks fans are still playing with house money (shouldn't have made the playoffs, shouldn't have survived round one); can Anaheim pull off another stunning giant-kill? Well, I made an optimism list that seemed to work well enough last round (and I think those still have some validity -- Carlyle's Ducks did continue the trend of winning in tough road cities), so I figured I'd try this again for Detroit.
After the jump: some reasons a Ducks fan can take hope going into tonight's series.
1. I think the Ducks are playing their better netminder; are the Red Wings?
Playoff pedigree vs. regular season results.
Now at first blush, this seemingly would be a contrast between the playoff experience and performance of Chris Osgood vs. Jonas Hiller -- one with a wealth of playoff experience and one coming off his first series victory. And that head-to-head matchup will definitely be a huge storyline -- a lot of this series will probably come down to how good each of these netminders perform under the other team's offensive assaults.
But there's another subtler storyline here, which is why Osgood and Hiller are playing over their benched counterparts -- in each case there seems to be a decision: play the netminder with the better results this season, or play the netminder with the better playoff pedigree. And for whatever reasons, Coaches Babcock and Carlyle have made different choices.
When Mike Babcock made his decision for a starting netminder for these playoffs, he opted for pedigree -- Conklin had a better GAA, SV%, SO, and Wins/GP than Osgood over the regular season, but for Detroit, it seems the bigger issue was playoff experience and Osgood's three cups.
Carlyle, on the other hand, went away from pedigree -- Giguere may be a playoff legend, especially in Detroit, but again, GAA, SV%, SO, and Wins/GP metrics all favored Hiller, and Carlyle stuck with the hotter hand.
So far, nobody's upset with the choice that was made -- Osgood and Hiller seemed to be the right netminders for any first-round challenges, but they both can't keep winning. If goaltending plays as large a role in this series as I'm expecting, what will win out -- Osgood's experience or Hiller's raw talent? Will either coach regret their goaltending option and revert to the other guy's netminder strategy? Bears some watching, I think.
2. Sasquatch, or as we call him, Pronger.
IAmJoe (or "Joe", as he likes to be called in the blogspot universe) has put this together in a nice post at the CLS series blog. Chris Pronger has a ton of experience against the postseason Wings, and finally in 2006 and 2007 Pronger's teams emerged victorious. Wings fans obviously detest Pronger for his cheap shots, but if I were a Wings fan, I'd find equally detestable the notion that Detroit scored neither an even-strength nor a power-play goal while Pronger was on the ice in the last match-up.
Pronger has been the common factor the last two times the Red Wings were eliminated, and he's more than a good-luck charm. With 10 points in 11 games in those two series, he's been a Detroit-killing force -- let's hope he's still got that mojo.
3. The Ducks are paid up on their Niedermayer Insurance.
I brought this up in my 5 reasons why the Wings should hate the Ducks (although now with Pahlsson traded and Giguere benched, we're largely down to three). In Detroit's modern era of postseason dominance, they've accomplished a lot of things, but they've never eliminated a Niedermayer. Scott's Devils swept the Wings in the 1995 cup finals, Rob's Mighty Ducks swept the Wings in the 2003 first round, and together they edged the Wings in 6 in the 2007 western conference finals. Some quotes from the 5 reasons post:
Rob:
Despite his shut-down role, Rob’s actually had impressive points totals against the postseason Wings: in 10 games, he has scored 8 points (0.8 pts/gm). Over the rest of his Anaheim career, he has played 50 playoff games NOT against Detroit and scored 15 points (0.3 pts/gm).Scott:
Game Two in Detroit he scored the game-winner from down low in the 15th minute of overtime to tie the series at 1 game apiece. Then, late in regulation of Game Five, with the Wings up by a goal and Giguere pulled for a 6-on-4, Scott delivered the "kick to the groin": a weak shot that deflected off the stick of Nick Lidstrom and fluttered lazily over Hasek’s shoulder. That shot, more than anything, decided that coin-flip series in Anaheim’s favor, and was probably the strongest case for Niedermayer’s Conn Smythe win.
4. Carlyle gets to re-visit an old opponent.
This will be the tenth postseason series that Coach Carlyle has coached for the Ducks, and the first time that he gets to go up against a coach and team that he's squared off against in the past. I'm really not an expert on the intricacies of coaching, but it seems that in most of the series Carlyle has coached, he's gotten a match-up edge and sheltered the weak parts of his roster effectively.
I really don't know who is favored in a coaching re-match, though. Has Babcock come up with a way to counter Carlyle's tendencies, or vice versa? This bears some watching.
5. The Monkey and the Forechecker Agree Again.
Brought this up last round, but there's one trend that I take entirely too much hope in, and the two stars have aligned for another round, at least. Both Maggie the Monkey and the Forechecker have made their second round selections, and thankfully both have gone the way of the Winged Wheel.
The table below will show you, but for whatever reason, even though both prognosticators have wildly different methods, ever since the Ducks dropped the "Mighty" from their team name, both Maggie and the Forechecker have picked incorrectly in every playoff series Anaheim has participated in. It's six series in a row so far; let's make it seven.
| Year | Rd | Series | Maggie's Pick | Forechecker's Pick | Series Winner |
| 2007 | 1 | (2) ANA vs. (7) MIN | Minnesota | Minnesota | Anaheim |
| 2007 | 2 | (2) ANA vs. (3) VAN | Vancouver | Vancouver | Anaheim |
| 2007 | 3 | (1) DET vs. (2) ANA | Detroit | Detroit | Anaheim |
| 2007 | 4 | (2) ANA vs. (4) OTT | Ottawa | Ottawa | Anaheim |
| 2008 | 1 | (4) ANA vs. (5) DAL | Anaheim | Anaheim | Dallas |
| 2009 | 1 | (1) SJS vs. (8) ANA | San Jose | San Jose | Anaheim |
| 2009 | 2 | (2) DET vs. (8) ANA | Detroit | Detroit | ??? |
6. The Ducks may be better off than last round.
If you recall, JavaGeek originally gave the Sharks a 71% likelihood of eliminating the Ducks. At least this time we're down to a manageable 68%. :) And no matter what anybody says, the Ducks have better odds this round than they did in 2003.
7. The Red Wings are very good.
Sound like a bad thing? It probably is, but there's one huge bright side to playing an excellent opponent, especially when it comes to hot-headed Anaheim -- the Ducks won't pretend that they're the better team. Throughout the season, that's been one huge problem for the Ducks -- as soon as they become convinced that they're playing an inferior team, they stopped working and got lazy. They seemed to lose interest in demonstrating why they were better; rather they relied on a sense of entitlement, often with regrettable results.
With the opponents the Ducks have faced so far in the Sharks and Wings, that illusion of Duck Superiority hasn't reared its ugly head. The Ducks players know they are up against a truly formidable foe, and thus they seem to put a lot more focus on execution and safe plays than at other times in the year, and that's a very good thing. The times that the Ducks have kept their heads on straight, they've been pretty good, and that's going to be a necessity if there's any hope in this series.
* * *
So most of this is nonsense, but there's hopefully there's some reasons why this could work out. It's going to take a lot of luck and a hot-as-hell Hiller, but that's not exactly new.
I'll be out of the comments tonight (I'm watching on a pretty good DVR delay with two buddies of mine), but feel free to join in during the game, or feel free to offer your own reasons for optimism.
Prediction: Pronger gets booed.
Go Ducks.
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249 comments
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Comments
of course i gotta comment first? i mean wtf
reason 7 i think just brighten my day…if the ducks have one good habit..its that they play “up” to compitetion…..there like the Lakers in a sense…were they get bored and/or lazy with lesser compitetion…
i was gonna type somthing negative about reason 1 but im promising today to not type anything negative…..
so GO DUCKS!!! AND GO CLOCK!! I had to work today after taking off monday
p.s.
so putting in some more jesus insurance today?
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 8:06 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
of course i gotta comment first? i mean wtf
Spade, that’s your claim to fame, dude. You’re a blogger’s dream — comments without discretion.
so putting in some more jesus insurance today?
Heh, not today, it’s not Thursday. Save that for G4. Tonight I’ll be watching late with one Ducks pal and one Wings pal — not sure that’s too smart, but we’re all committed now.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 8:11 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
First no Draper for G1 or G2, and now no Rafalski tonight, either. I guess Detroit doesn’t want to repeat SJ’s mistake of having players play through it.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 9:24 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
the wings fans seem to be panicking…positivty!!!
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 9:40 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
don’t pretend you’re not
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 9:43 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Shark fans know very well the stress associated with round 2. :)
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 9:45 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
not this year we don’t (cries silently)
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 9:49 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, at least there’s some good (?) news — McLellan’s up for coach of the year. Bruins’ Claude Julien and Blues’ Andy Murray are the competition.
I predict the east-coast dude takes it, though. Call it trophy intuition.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 10:09 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
reading there comments..they think the sky is falling….its odd actually
and yes of course im panicking…but this is the first time ive seen it from them
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 9:47 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
i was gonna say somthing negative…but noooo…this is good news..ducks need to take advantage…GO DUCKS GO!!!! GO DUCKS GO!!!! GO DUCKS GO!!!!
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 9:48 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
okay…you’re freaking me out more and more. I can’t take this stress!
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 9:49 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can’t take this stress!
Not too late to become a Kings fan, I guess.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 9:50 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
tee-hee
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 9:51 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
who in their right mind would want to do that?
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 9:52 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
maybe a last dying wish for a kid who has cancer…that might a scenerio…
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 9:55 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
might … I guess … maybe … (yeah right!)
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 9:56 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
If there was a kid who was dying and they wanted to be a Kings fan, I’d gladly let them.
There would be no fullfilment in it for them…but if it makes them happy…so be it.
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 10:05 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
If there was a kid who was dying and they wanted to be a Kings fan, I’d gladly let them.
Heck, a few years ago, if a dying kid wanted to be the Kings netminder, that probably was a step up.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 10:07 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
HAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Their fans might actually have something to cheer for!
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 10:09 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Flagged for inappropriate content
2009 LA Kings Hockey: thanks to Joe Sakic's snowblower, WE'RE BETTER THAN THE AV'S!!!!
by DodgerBlueBalls on May 1, 2009 12:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not too late to become a Kings fan, I guess.
who in their right mind would want to do that?
Seriously…geez ES, I’m not STUPID!
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 9:54 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
ha ha !
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 9:55 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I JUST DRANK SOME COKE….AND GAMETIME IS HOURS AWAY….EXPECT MORE FREAKISH BEHAVIOR FROM SPADE
p.s.
die your hair a different color for this series….
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 9:51 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Uh-oh, Spade. Do we need to schedule an intervention?
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 9:54 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
should YOU really be the one to do that though? :)
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 9:55 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
he does sing in choir tho … (shrugs)
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 9:56 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
haha, yea, cause that’s going to get him into heaven.
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 10:06 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
who do you think you are “john constantine” sleek? you cant buy your way into heaven remember?
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 10:09 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
nooooo dont put me on that show!!..i dont want to walk in a room with you, andrew, james, plank…and your start embaressing me on camera….youll tell me were gonna go watch a ducks game at your house…ill be all excited..them bammmm…..cameras..and concerned faces!!! noooooooo…..dont do it sleek!!!!
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 9:56 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
oh! on cam?? now that could be interesting
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 9:57 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
you never seen that show?
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 9:57 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
nope … could be interesting
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 9:58 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
yea the look on the face of the guy/gal getting intervened is classic
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 9:59 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah I bet … thinking you are going to have a good time, and instead you get a lecture … ugh!
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 10:00 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
oh go for it … don’t hold back
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 9:49 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Really, the first time you have seen panic from Wings fans? Oh, believe me we panic a lot.
by hockeychic on May 1, 2009 9:55 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
small percentage…like the number of people with swine flu….not the norm…(could change in a week though)
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 9:57 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
One of my friends from college, btw, is now a doctor (or something) in Columbus. He panic-texted me a lot during the first round with a lot of Wing hatred, but his text yesterday was quite intriguing:
My one claim to fame: I took care of Columbus’s first swine flu patient.
My lame response:
Pig deal. :)
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 10:01 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
not lame funny hehe
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 10:01 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I actually laughed … that’s sad.
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 10:02 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
me too! haha
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 10:07 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I saw these on another discussion board, and they made me chuckle.


by g r a c e on May 1, 2009 10:43 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Flat-out awesome. Maybe I’ll have to make some Iowa Chop-based cartoon sometime down the line.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 10:48 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

SNN Sports - A theoretical Oilers blog (i.e. theoretically, I write stuff there)
by Doogie2K on May 1, 2009 11:50 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bah. Stupid comment cutting off at the side.
SNN Sports - A theoretical Oilers blog (i.e. theoretically, I write stuff there)
by Doogie2K on May 1, 2009 11:51 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
woohoo!!!
you missed a reference to frank…hes always talking with frank
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 11:52 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I woke up way too early this morning, all nervous/excited. It is only going to get worse as the day goes along.
Very good piece Earl, you just cranked up my nervousness even more! Draper is out for Games 1 and 2 at least with some mystery upper body injury which is bad for Detroit in the faceoff department.
I would say your prediction is spot on.
I’m watching on DVR delay too since I don’t get out of work until after the game start. Darn Eastern Time Zone starts!
Facebook has a stupid (but very fun app) of “Five People You Would Like to Hit With a Shovel” and mine has Sasquatch at 1 – 4 and Getzlaf for #5. Normally I have Corey Perry in their somewhere but I made a special Game 1 addition. :)
One of my best hockey buddies is flying up from Houston tonight for delayed DVR watching and he is filled with dread that the Wings will lose this serious so my nerves will get even worse. Ugh. Is it too early to start drinking?
Now I had written this post earlier but the servers must have died or something because I couldn’t post (or maybe you just have it in for me Earl). I just heard the Rafalski news and I thnk I am going to throw up. Chris Chelios is in instead. Someone hand me a bucket.
by hockeychic on May 1, 2009 9:28 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Now I had written this post earlier but the servers must have died or something because I couldn’t post (or maybe you just have it in for me Earl).
We were all blocked out — apparently SBN servers couldn’t handle all the sweaty-palm pre-games for this Ducks/Wings series.
Maybe I should set up a separate comments thread for the DVR-delayed.
Darn Eastern Time Zone starts!
Well, it may have some benefits for Wing-lovers. Hey, you did get a Hart nod — don’t think those exist in the other time zones.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 9:34 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, it may have some benefits for Wing-lovers. Hey, you did get a Hart nod — don’t think those exist in the other time zones
You do have a point there. And you made me laugh which is going to be harder and harder for me to do as the day goes along.
by hockeychic on May 1, 2009 9:39 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Losing a seven-game series to the Red Wings sucks. Or at least best as I can remember it from a decade ago, but I’m pretty sure it’s true.
When have the Ducks and Wings ever gone to a 7 game series? We swept you twice, then you swept us once and beat us in 6.
http://wingsvducks.blogspot.com/
Check out the Wings/Ducks coverage over at CycleLikeSedins!
by IAmJoe on May 1, 2009 9:55 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Meh, best-of-seven, then. I’m not always the best at technically-correct terminology.
See also: Flip – yoo – la.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 9:57 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
you might have contracted spade-idus…or the swine flu…
is this really sleek?
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 10:01 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ah, ok. Well hey, think of it this way, I think you guys are the only team to sweep the Wings since the 1995 Cup finals loss to the Devils.
Flip-yoo-la is correct, I think. Babcock only says Phil-eh-pool-uh cause he talks funny.
http://wingsvducks.blogspot.com/
Check out the Wings/Ducks coverage over at CycleLikeSedins!
by IAmJoe on May 1, 2009 10:30 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Isn’t it Fil-pyoo-la?
SNN Sports - A theoretical Oilers blog (i.e. theoretically, I write stuff there)
by Doogie2K on May 1, 2009 11:57 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mostly, I think announcers say Flip-yoo-luh. I call him Philp-You-Luh. Babcock calls him Philip-pool-uh. I think Fil-pyoo-la is probably right, with the emphasis on the P. Its just kind of awkward in normal English.
http://wingsvducks.blogspot.com/
Check out the Wings/Ducks coverage over at CycleLikeSedins!
by IAmJoe on May 1, 2009 12:23 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Great piece Sleek.
Fear The Fin: Where Selling Your Soul Is The Likely Solution
by Mr. Plank on May 1, 2009 10:10 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
plankster…what are u gonna be up to today? gonna watch the game or are you boycotting?
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 10:11 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ll be watching the game … as soon as I get home.
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 10:17 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
its win-win for you…you get to dance on somebodys grave
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 10:21 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
which is always a fun thing to do … :)
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 10:24 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ll be watching. Drunk. Very fucking drunk.
Fear The Fin: Where Selling Your Soul Is The Likely Solution
by Mr. Plank on May 1, 2009 10:56 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
not to be motherly … but won’t it be too early to be very fucking drunk?? game starts at 4pm … tho I do plan on going out tonight and not celebrating myself. ugh!
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 10:58 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Will anyone else be around in the comments thread tonight?
by g r a c e on May 1, 2009 10:21 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I am planing on it…however, it was all too much during game 5…
we’ll see what happens.
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 10:24 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeall ill be on…but as with SK..if were looking stupid…might take the advice..if you got nothing nice to say..dont say it at all…but thats not gonna happen…cuz were gonna do well and ill be chatty
see didnt break the “being negative” rule
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 10:28 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
if you got nothing nice to say..dont say it at all…
Thank goodness I’ll be out of the comments — I think I break this “rule” pretty damn frequently.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 10:29 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
yea maybe I should stay away too…my comments are better directed towards negativity
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 10:30 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hope you stick around! We can be shhhhhhhh!’ed by Spade together.
by g r a c e on May 1, 2009 10:36 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
that’s sooooooo funny. Not to “out” him or anything…but he’ll soon learn via Twitter that I REGULARLY shhhhhhhhhhh all the over confident positive Ducks fans on twitter.
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 10:41 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
SK Eleven: Twitter’s Killjoy Cop.
Awesome.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 10:44 AM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
I’ve been hanging out on non-Sharks game days (which is the rest of the season now) over at PPP’s … best if I stick to there during this series during game time given the situation … :)
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 10:30 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just wanted to clarify, by “else,” I meant, “besides myself.” My internet is being uncooperative and won’t refresh comments for me. So for about 20 minutes I was sitting there, thinking “Yikes, did I just kill the chatter?” Then I refreshed and found all the new comments.
by g r a c e on May 1, 2009 10:35 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Blame SBN — is your “auto-refresh” option at the top of the comments checked? That’s about the extent of my technical expertise.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 10:38 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It’s working now. Must have been a temporary glitch.
by g r a c e on May 1, 2009 10:41 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, who knows today? I mean, we still haven’t gotten the e-mail from SBN to tell us that the sites are back up, so they may still be tinkering.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 10:45 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
or they may bring it back down soon to apply the fix to bring it back up
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 10:49 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
funny…didn’t know there was an auto-refresh button
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 10:45 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It’s a little check box under the blue “comments” bar. I think the default position is that it’s checked.
by g r a c e on May 1, 2009 10:47 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
yea, I’ve always had it set apparently…just didn’t know it existed.
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 10:53 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fun fun fun! My look at Game 1....
Posting it here because I think it’ll get a little more discussion…
Who Needs to Win Tonight?
Until this morning, I thought this was really the Wings. Home Ice isn’t quite as important when you are playing with teams that can go anywhere and win, but they need to establish themselves as the team to beat with the first game. San Jose went in weak and got smacked, and they never recovered from it. I thought Detroit had to establish itself quick here and make sure that Anaheim knew it was still the lower seed.
That is, until I found out Rafalski is out for Game 1. Now, I’m not going to panic; last time Chelios was playing against the Ducks, he was the #2 Defensemen. This time, he’s going to probably be #5. And let’s face facts: The more Draper stays out, the better we are. Helm is faster, a better shot, and more energetic than Draper is nowadays. If only Maltby would sit down and let Leino get in, and we’d be good.
But Rafalski being out gives the Ducks a chink in the armor they NEED to exploit. Their offensive power does not match up well to Detroit’s defensive line-up. With a much weaker 3 pairing (Likely Chelios-Lebda), this is a critical chance to steal a game in a series that was going to be close. That first line is going to have trouble as it is, and this is the ideal chance for another line to step it up. Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Ducks have a chance they can’t afford to let slip.
Who Will Win?
Tonight, I see the game opening up in the first period with a Getzlaf goal, and Franzen tying it up before the period is out. Sameulsson will score the second off a PP, and Datsyuk will put one past a screened Hiller to put it at 3-1. Beauchemain will get a fluttering goal off a Perry screen, but once Hiller comes out of the net, Zetterberg will pot the empty-netter and end it at 4-2. Go Wings.
"Don't touch my dream with your dirty hands!"
by Justice and Rule on May 1, 2009 10:49 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
way to bash the Sharks on a post that has nothing to do with the Sharks … (shrugs)
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 10:51 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
are you still cheering for the wings ang?….i think this is the 4th time already you had to defend your tibarones
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 10:54 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m cheering for a sink hole … :)
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 10:55 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Come over to our side, we’re nicer!
by g r a c e on May 1, 2009 10:55 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
altho I was feeling a bit bad for the ducks earlier in the season … I just can’t do it … as much as I have always enjoyed the BoC and all that are here … :)
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 10:57 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
’Sokay, I just remembered your Wings fan friend. Ah well, it was worth a shot.
by g r a c e on May 1, 2009 10:58 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
funny thing is … I had found at work this Wings bear … and had put voodoo pins in him … my friend here at work made me take them out other day
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 10:59 AM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
… I had found at work this Wings bear … and had put voodoo pins in him … my friend here at work made me take them out other day
Whoa, even though both the Wings and the Bruins were unbeaten? I might have stuck more in.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 11:03 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
well he comes by my desk all the time … so hard to sneak any in … unless I stick it in his back … which I have considered
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 11:14 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
heres a quote from bingo bango a red wings blog:
“Congratulations Ducks, you beat the perennial choke artists. You beat a few players without the heart or drive to make it to the next round….now you face the Wings, and this will be different.”
go to abel to yzerman….lots of sharks dissing over there….your embraced and loved over here at this blog
doesnt that make you want to throw on a getzlaf jersey?
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 11:06 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think it’s really funny that NOW everyone expected the Sharks to choke again this year, when Ducks fans were merely crossing their fingers to get a chance to win a few games in the series. It seemed to me that there were numerous people who picked the Sharks to take the cup…and now that they’re eliminated it’s cause they choked again? I wish people would just fucking realize that there is a damn good chance that the Ducks are good or better than SJ was and maybe it wasn’t because they choked.
Lame.
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 11:09 AM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
I wish I could rec this more than once.
by g r a c e on May 1, 2009 11:10 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
yea thats what pissed me off….i mean….can it be the ducks are a good team?
is that impossible to fathom?
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 11:11 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
it is a little understandable with the team they started out with for the first 60+ games…but they definitely turned it around quite a bit
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 11:20 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
pisses me off the whole choking business period … only one fuckign team can win each year … period … yet only the Sharks are called chokers … no one else … fucking lame as shit
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 11:16 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
ugh!! and no !
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 11:15 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
i hope if I ever have a daughter..she has the will power you have
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 11:26 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
as an added note … the Wings fans I know personally are cool … just the ones online seems to be major pricks … not sure why that is.
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 10:56 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The jerk-ifying power of the internet. It’s awesome.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 10:58 AM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
Eh – people tend to be nicer when you’re close enough to punch them in the face.
by GOOLIAN on May 1, 2009 11:03 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
{Please see earlier post @ 12:52 PM EDT in which Ang bashes the Kings on a post that has nothing to do with Kings}
2009 LA Kings Hockey: thanks to Joe Sakic's snowblower, WE'RE BETTER THAN THE AV'S!!!!
by DodgerBlueBalls on May 1, 2009 12:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
XFD, this might be the funniest thing in this thread
http://wingsvducks.blogspot.com/
Check out the Wings/Ducks coverage over at CycleLikeSedins!
by IAmJoe on May 1, 2009 12:50 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
ha ha ! and I was merely replying to someone else’s comment :)
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 1:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Who Needs to Win Tonight?
It’s always a bit murky on G1, but this always has a clear-as-hell answer in G2.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 10:54 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, to be honest, “Who Needs to Win” should be “Who Needs to Win More”, since you always need to win. :-D
"Don't touch my dream with your dirty hands!"
by Justice and Rule on May 1, 2009 11:20 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
ducks need to win…they play better with confidence…the wings can lose but still pull it together and win the series..IMO
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 11:23 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Tonight, I see the game opening up in the first period with a Getzlaf goal, and Franzen tying it up before the period is out. Sameulsson will score the second off a PP, and Datsyuk will put one past a screened Hiller to put it at 3-1. Beauchemain will get a fluttering goal off a Perry screen, but once Hiller comes out of the net, Zetterberg will pot the empty-netter and end it at 4-2. Go Wings.
Haha, wow, that’s quite a vivid, specific game prediction.
by g r a c e on May 1, 2009 10:55 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
i do see franzen scoring..that asshole always seems to pot one against us….
how do u live with a name like johan?
but i see 4-2 ducks…
2Xgetz, whitney (bold prediction..hes still peeved at last years finals), and empty netter by rob
johan and lidstrom
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 11:09 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ve been calling for it for a few games now, but I would really like Selanne to score a real goal. Or rather, I’d like him to really score a goal.
by g r a c e on May 1, 2009 11:13 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Selanne seems to score lots of goals against the Wings. 2007, I can’t hear you, lalalala
by hockeychic on May 1, 2009 11:15 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
a really important one in a game 6!!
shame there will be no lilija to re-create!!!
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 11:18 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Heh, Selanne’s big goal was G5 in ’07.
And he might score a lot against Detroit typically, but he did only get two that series. Which I suppose is high — he did only get five goals that playoff year.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 11:19 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
ok payback for your game 7 gaff….you still need to gaff about 500 times before you catch up to me
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 11:22 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t make any game predictions other than I will be very nervous and yelling expletives at Pronger.
by hockeychic on May 1, 2009 11:11 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Oddly enough, that description will probably apply equally well to me tonight.
by g r a c e on May 1, 2009 11:14 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Could it be
we can find a common ground? :)
by hockeychic on May 1, 2009 11:15 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
See, Chris Pronger is bringing people together – building bridges between fanbases.
We just won’t mention that the bridges are made out of hatred.
by GOOLIAN on May 1, 2009 11:22 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
hate is a very strong emotion tho … :)
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 11:24 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Heh, the bridges might be there, but nobody’s going to cross b/c everyone knows that the minute they set foot on one, the other side’s going to light it on fire.
Um, what? No, come on over, hockeychic! (hides matches)
by g r a c e on May 1, 2009 11:27 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Umm, no, why don’t you come over here? (hides gasoline)
by hockeychic on May 1, 2009 11:44 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
you cunt babcock!!
thought Id never see an ex-ducks coach say this:
“Call the penalties,” Babcock pleaded in anticipation of the Wings’ Western Conference semifinal opener tonight against the Anaheim Ducks.
The Ducks, particularly defenseman Chris Pronger, have a reputation for trying to mix it up and show how big, bad and tough they are against a team like the Wings.
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“We’d just like the referee to call the penalties,” Babcock said. "It’s simple for us. There’s going to be no scrums on our part (after whistles). We’re just going to line up for the faceoff.
“Every team has a way they play. I think you’ve got to play the way you play. Obviously, that’s part of their game and that’s what they think is an advantage for them. Our part of our game is to go to the net on a consistent basis and not to scrum. So we’re not going to do it.”
weak weak weak….
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 11:35 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
We shall see. The Sharks didn’t start very scrummy either, but sure changed their tune by the end of that series.
And as for penalty discrepancy, I think we’re used to that by now. Sharks got some dozen extra minutes of power play time than the Ducks did over six games, and the last time these two teams met, the discrepancy was twenty minutes of power play time.
I’d be shocked, frankly, if there was any other script to these games.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 11:39 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Detroit got way more PP time than the Jackets, and I don’ think the Jackets are anywhere near as scrappy as Elbows & co.
by GOOLIAN on May 1, 2009 11:54 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
ha ha ! sounds like he’s already lining up excuses should something not go the Wings way
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 11:41 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
yea thats what i was thinking…..real lame…maybe he needs to coach tennis…
well like i told earl about the last series….if we goad the wings into playing our type of game..things will probally be going right for us….thats why im saying….a little bit of goonery might help “if” we can get away with it…depends on the refs….but looks like bab-“cock” is trying to grease the tracks…
sux didnt expect this from him to be honest
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 11:44 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It’ll be interesting to see how Moustache Parros plays in this series, with little-to-no option for a fighting partner. I was pretty encouraged by his last game against the Sharks, though — seemed to play a mostly-solid game, put three shots on goal, and was behind Nabokov in the net twice.
Amazing growth by that guy. No way we could play Parros in 2007; now it’s getting to the point where it’s hard to picture playing without him (watch — now Carlyle will go with some Iowa Pig all series).
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 11:49 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
the stache just needs to check hard….especally the wings D…he does that and plays responsible defensivly…he gets an A
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 11:54 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
In the article where I read those quotes, Kitty (aka Carlyle) was doing his share of jockeying for the refs’ attention. Saying stuff about how Homer gets away with interference more often than most, etc.
by g r a c e on May 1, 2009 11:46 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
well of course its ok when our coach does it….sshhhhh
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 11:48 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
ha ha !
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 11:49 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hey, its not interference when the goalie comes out to mess with you. More often than not, Homer is standing there with his ass end sitting right on the line of the crease, and the goalie is trying to skate out to the very top of the crease. It ain’t interference if he was there first. Besides, he certainly takes worse than he gives. Anyone who plays that position will.
http://wingsvducks.blogspot.com/
Check out the Wings/Ducks coverage over at CycleLikeSedins!
by IAmJoe on May 1, 2009 11:57 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
YES!
I’ve been saying that this had to be done for the last few days. Babcock has to draw attention to Pronger, and then the Wings need to put Helm or someone equally annoying (and quick) on Pronger to draw the penalties the refs will be watching for.
http://wingsvducks.blogspot.com/
Check out the Wings/Ducks coverage over at CycleLikeSedins!
by IAmJoe on May 1, 2009 11:49 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
im hoping the refs dont read newspapers/internet
i do think regardless if they do..they are gonna watch pronger anyways…he knows that
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 11:51 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I don’t know that it will really make a big difference, but I don’t think it needs to make a big difference. This series is going to be so tight, that just a few extra edges one way or the other can make the difference. If DET gets say 2 extra PP’s because of this throughout the length of the series, maybe thats enough.
http://wingsvducks.blogspot.com/
Check out the Wings/Ducks coverage over at CycleLikeSedins!
by IAmJoe on May 1, 2009 11:52 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Babcock has to draw attention to Pronger
I guess, but I’d think the refs would be tuned in already. Plus say what you will about the guy — he played a very clean series against the Sharks. I’m more worried about the penalties from the forwards, to tell the truth. They can be a lazy bunch sometimes.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 11:51 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
sometimes.
ha- thats funny.
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 11:53 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
second that
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 11:54 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It’s still shocking to me that at least on the first line Ryan seems so much more mature in this department than the twins – and most of the rest of the team for that matter.
by GOOLIAN on May 1, 2009 11:56 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
over and under on getzlaf hooking pentalties in the series is at 8 right now
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 11:57 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh I’m absolutely overlooking your forwards. I don’t even care. Getzlaf can cut off someone’s head off for all I care, I’m just worried about Pronger and Niedermayer. I really think the Ducks defense is better than the Wings in this series. I’m not sure if thats because of better personnel (hard to think that way, maybe I’m taking Lidstrom for granted), or maybe its because of the style and the system being better suited for the playoff grind, and having the players to play that style. I think its the style.
But if Getzlaf has to cut off someone’s head, could it be Samuelsson please?
http://wingsvducks.blogspot.com/
Check out the Wings/Ducks coverage over at CycleLikeSedins!
by IAmJoe on May 1, 2009 11:55 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m sure he’ll try for Lidstrom but he’ll never catch him.
That’s one slippery Swede.
by GOOLIAN on May 1, 2009 11:56 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I second that
I won’t even be upset if they take off Samuelsson’s head. I might even be grateful.
by hockeychic on May 1, 2009 11:58 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
OK, but if Hedican makes any appearance in this series, the Wings have to injure him within his first five minutes of ice time. Deal?
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 11:59 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I really didn’t even know he was still around until the Ducks got him and you reacted to it. I thought he just got stuffed into a storage bin out there in Carolina and everyone just forgot about him.
http://wingsvducks.blogspot.com/
Check out the Wings/Ducks coverage over at CycleLikeSedins!
by IAmJoe on May 1, 2009 12:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
He moved to a storage bin in southern California.
by GOOLIAN on May 1, 2009 12:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
sleek holds the key….
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 12:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, if he’s going to cut someone’s head off, let’s put Lilja out there. He’s already injured, and his corpse makes an excellent shot-blocking device.
"Don't touch my dream with your dirty hands!"
by Justice and Rule on May 1, 2009 11:59 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nah, the Ducks owe too much to that guy.
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 11:59 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh that was just unnecessary.
http://wingsvducks.blogspot.com/
Check out the Wings/Ducks coverage over at CycleLikeSedins!
by IAmJoe on May 1, 2009 12:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
as i mentioned before were hoping for lilja re-creation of “game 5 07” (thanx sleek)
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 12:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Considering our offensive power, you might want to hope for it three or four times. :-P
"Don't touch my dream with your dirty hands!"
by Justice and Rule on May 1, 2009 12:01 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Pot? We have the kettle for you on line 2…
by GOOLIAN on May 1, 2009 11:37 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Over at the CLS miniblog, we have the keys for each side in this series. Good reading on both sides, while you wait for the puck to drop.
Anaheim Calling has their keys to the series up right here.
I have the keys to the Wings end of the series up right here.
http://wingsvducks.blogspot.com/
Check out the Wings/Ducks coverage over at CycleLikeSedins!
by IAmJoe on May 1, 2009 12:00 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
the keys for the ducks…dont suck
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 12:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thats kind of how I feel about it from the Wings side.
I think both sides here are kinda like “aw shit we’re gonna lose this series” As I said in my keys, intellectually, I think the Ducks take this. Dicks.
http://wingsvducks.blogspot.com/
Check out the Wings/Ducks coverage over at CycleLikeSedins!
by IAmJoe on May 1, 2009 12:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Gotta love this season of self-doubt. Same thing is going on between me and my Wing pal.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 12:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Seriously — you guys are all-stars over there. Good stuff all around.
Maybe you guys could keep that mini-blog going until these two teams meet again (projected odd number year: 2011).
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 12:01 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thank you Earl!
http://wingsvducks.blogspot.com/
Check out the Wings/Ducks coverage over at CycleLikeSedins!
by IAmJoe on May 1, 2009 12:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, great stuff Joe.
How long do you think Ozzie’ll last?
by GOOLIAN on May 1, 2009 12:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Damn, talk about a loaded question.
Game 5, Conklin starts in front of a loud and angry Joe Louis Arena, who is pretty pissed off that Ozzie has already clearly cost them at least one game in the series so far. Does he start sooner than that? I don’t know, but I do think he ends up playing Game 5.
http://wingsvducks.blogspot.com/
Check out the Wings/Ducks coverage over at CycleLikeSedins!
by IAmJoe on May 1, 2009 12:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ugh, this make me nervous. If it is true, let’s hope he remembers how to hold the post.
by hockeychic on May 1, 2009 12:10 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I disagree. His positioning against Columbus was great. While the Red Wings don’t face as many shots, the shots that do get on net are generally much higher-percentage shots, and he did well enough. Until he tweaked his leg in the Game 4, he was right on.
Now this is a much more talented team in comparison to Columbus, but I’m not sure that Ozzie is going to be our biggest problem. If he can get us through Pittsburgh, we should be okay.
"Don't touch my dream with your dirty hands!"
by Justice and Rule on May 1, 2009 12:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
So which Osgood are we going to get Games 1 -3 or Game 4? I agree, it was obvious that he hurt himself in Game 4 and he game up big in the third period.
by hockeychic on May 1, 2009 12:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
There was a couple questionable shots that got by him in that G4 vs Columbus, I felt. Two longer shots in particular, iirc, that I felt should’ve been stopped. He was decent against Columbus, but as you said, this is a much more talented team. I feel 100% confident in saying that Osgood will give up some goals that he really should’ve been able to stop in this series. I think Hiller only allowed one goal like that, off the top of my head, in the SJ series, and that was Setoguchi’s bankshot. As tight as I anticipate this series being, a couple of bad goals across the entire series will likely make a big difference.
The really scary part here though is not what I think Ozzie will or won’t do. Its that you, hockeychic, and I, and any other Wings fan right now, can totally see in your head Ozzie completely melting down and blowing this series. You can imagine it happening. You can probably picture it clearly in your head. You can see it, you know its possible, you know its even maybe plausible, you’re just trying to think that its not probable. The fact that our hopes lie on the shoulders of a goalie with whom you can totally imagine that happening is scary as hell.
http://wingsvducks.blogspot.com/
Check out the Wings/Ducks coverage over at CycleLikeSedins!
by IAmJoe on May 1, 2009 12:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Also, even more scary:
We’re more or less stuck with him for another year.
http://wingsvducks.blogspot.com/
Check out the Wings/Ducks coverage over at CycleLikeSedins!
by IAmJoe on May 1, 2009 12:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
i vote for meltdown!!
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 12:20 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
Yeah, he let in a few, though at that point the Wings’ defense was being extremely lazy and he had already tweaked his leg. He was having problems moving around, which helped lead to those goals. He’s had layoff time to recover, and I’m just not that worried about him.
Again, I’m not as worried about Ozzie. Generally speaking, his “meltdowns” are really team defense meltdowns. Blaming him for those series he lost way back when would be like blaming CuJo back in 2003, which was completely wrong as well. I’m more worried about cracking Hiller quick. I know that the Wings will do it, but I think it needs to be by Game 2 or Game 3 if they want the best chance of taking the series. The longer he keeps up a tough front, the closer this series is and that doesn’t benefit the Wings.
Of course I’m a goalie and I have a different perspective than most. I just don’t see Ozzie being the problem here.
"Don't touch my dream with your dirty hands!"
by Justice and Rule on May 1, 2009 12:25 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
would be like blaming CuJo back in 2003
Yeah, that’s foolish. CuJo played just fine. Better than Nabokov did last round.
OK, time for some lunch so I can (slightly) decrease my odds of passing out mid-game.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 12:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I did pass out during the 3rd period of the Canucks/Hawks game last night and kept waking up sporadically to see the score changes. I’m getting a big coffee before I watch the game tonight so that doesn’t happen.
OK, guess I better focus on my job for a bit.
by hockeychic on May 1, 2009 12:28 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, CuJo played brilliantly. I fucking lambasted someone who said CuJo was the weak link, pointing out that his Save Percentage (.917) and GAA (2.08), and the fact that the Wings couldn’t buy a goal in that series. The only response was that “Sometimes you have to steal a game”, which made my brain hurt…
"Don't touch my dream with your dirty hands!"
by Justice and Rule on May 1, 2009 12:31 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, CuJo got shafted on that one. I was so psyched when he came to DET too. Finally, a real goaltender!
I do think there is something to “stealing a game” though. I mean, that’s practically what Giguere did for 3 and a half rounds that year. I don’t think you can apply that to CuJo there, as it requires you to outplay the other team, and he was going against perhaps the best postseason goaltending performance in history (its certainly up there), but its certainly something that I have laid on Nabokov’s doorstep a few times. I know goalies hate to hear that, as part of the game involves getting pucks in the OTHER team’s net too, but its pretty hard to win a Cup if your goalie doesn’t drag you through a couple games you had no business winning.
http://wingsvducks.blogspot.com/
Check out the Wings/Ducks coverage over at CycleLikeSedins!
by IAmJoe on May 1, 2009 12:39 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
you guys still going on about cujo? perseverance
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 12:42 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hey, when you’re team has more than 20 years of history, you tend to talk about things outside the present. ;-P
"Don't touch my dream with your dirty hands!"
by Justice and Rule on May 1, 2009 12:47 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ouch, someone better get Spade some ointment for that burn :-D
up top to pulling the history card!
http://wingsvducks.blogspot.com/
Check out the Wings/Ducks coverage over at CycleLikeSedins!
by IAmJoe on May 1, 2009 12:49 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
hehe…im licking my wounds there yes hehe
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 12:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
licking wounds where?
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 1:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
see taco comment below
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 1:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
so adding these are messy tacos would be bringing this post even further down in the gutter huh?
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 1:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
letting red wings fans talk about cujo for 20 posts already accomplished that….
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 1:26 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
ha ha!
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 1:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well the defense certainly doesn’t help, and I’m right there with you on CuJo in 2003. But I can’t get these visions of long-ish shots from the tops of the circles continuing to beat him . I really really hope it doesn’t happen, but it scares me that I can see him completely blowing this.
I totally agree that beating Hiller early is important. But even if it becomes an all-out slugfest where every game ends 1-0, I think the Wings can win that series, as long as Ozzie can play to it. If he can’t though… That’s what I’m afraid of, that this will turn into one of those kinds of slugfests, and if Ozzie can’t play to the level he needs to…
http://wingsvducks.blogspot.com/
Check out the Wings/Ducks coverage over at CycleLikeSedins!
by IAmJoe on May 1, 2009 12:30 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
My feelings on this series have gone wildly from one side to the other and now I find myself firmly in the middle with, “I don’t know but can we just play the game already?”
by hockeychic on May 1, 2009 12:05 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I don’t know why I love all this anxious energy, though — I wouldn’t be that dismayed if they delayed this series by a week. I mean, we’d all be nervous wrecks, but there’s still some fun in that.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 12:06 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It is somewhat comforting that it’s coming from both sides instead of just our side this time.
by GOOLIAN on May 1, 2009 12:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
If you had Ozzie for a goalie, you’d be concerned too.
http://wingsvducks.blogspot.com/
Check out the Wings/Ducks coverage over at CycleLikeSedins!
by IAmJoe on May 1, 2009 12:10 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Somewhat, but I did like how the Sharks and their fans were looking well past the first round. That always allows for a little wake-up calling.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 12:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
(glares @ you)
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 12:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
4 hours
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 12:06 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
4 hours and im on my second diet coke….too much caffiene!!!
nervous……!!!! nervous!!!
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 12:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
soda ? this early ?? … yuck! (actually I dont’ drink any soda) … and speaking of which … I think it’s time to go get some tacos
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 12:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
i second the tacos!! (uh-o post might go downhill again)
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 12:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
ha ha!
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 1:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
plus maybe 2 more of DVR delay.
Can’t be helped, though. My former roommate (the Ducks fan) works a graveyard shift, and dragging him up at 4 pm is like waking me up at 3 am on a Saturday.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 12:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
2 hours of DVR delay here too. Though I am starting to wonder if eating while watching the game is a good idea. Maybe if I have a bucket nearby?
by hockeychic on May 1, 2009 12:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can’t even tell you for sure that watching the game is a good idea. Depends on the reliability of your heart, I think.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 12:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Actually Mirtle had something about that exact topic and Mike Green’s mom on the front page today.
Too much stress, man. Too much stress.
by GOOLIAN on May 1, 2009 12:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
My daughter always asks anyone that watches a game with me if they are certified in CPR.
by hockeychic on May 1, 2009 12:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
seriously….
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 12:23 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
sleek
gonna need to post a new post for the actual game..this is getting long..
need to do it before you leave to go get your nails painted or where ever your going
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 12:29 PM PDT reply actions 2 recs
recommended
http://wingsvducks.blogspot.com/
Check out the Wings/Ducks coverage over at CycleLikeSedins!
by IAmJoe on May 1, 2009 12:31 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m recommending the Sleek dig, not painting your nails in general.
http://wingsvducks.blogspot.com/
Check out the Wings/Ducks coverage over at CycleLikeSedins!
by IAmJoe on May 1, 2009 12:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
gonna need to post a new post for the actual game..this is getting long..
We’ll see. I’ve hit my quota of “one post every once in a while”, and I am a pretty lazy guy when it comes down to it.
Besides, the way the SBN servers have been today, one more post might just make ’em explode.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 12:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
more proof that bab-“cock” is no fan of pronger:
The 6-foot-4, 206-pound Ericsson, a native of Sweden, is certainly similar in size to the 6-6, 214-pound Pronger.
"He actually looks like Chris Pronger," Babcock said. "He doesn’t cross-check and that stuff, but he does the rest."
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 1:00 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Hey, until Pronger played for us, I was no fan either. That’s cool, though — I suspect I’d prefer playing against someone who looks like Pronger than someone who plays like him.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 1:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
mikie is really laying it on thick though isnt he?….
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 1:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sure he is — gamesmanship. He probably thinks he didn’t whine enough two years ago, and that may have cost them the series.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 1:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
omg im laughing my ass of right now….almost spit my water on my keyboard
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 1:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not to be a "Debby Downer", but....
No team that has eliminated the Sharks has gone on to win the Cup (that’s a bit of ES research I did right there…). Scary but true, though many teams have gone on to the WCF and the SCF.
by Itlan on May 1, 2009 1:32 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
what was funny was the “not to be”……..
Yippe ky yea...mini sirloin burgers!!
by SPADE-IN-VICTORHELL on May 1, 2009 1:35 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I had that nugget from last round, but forgot about it first, then didn’t have a venue to unleash it.
BTW, I don’t subscribe to the notion of these kinds of stats anyway. It’s not like the Sharks always beat up on their opponents to a point where they are too worn out to win it all.
by Itlan on May 1, 2009 1:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
BTW, I don’t subscribe to the notion of these kinds of stats anyway.
Yeah, they’ve got their ridiculous sides to ’em. But sometimes when you are the underdog, why focus on relevant trends when feel-good alternatives are so easily available?
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 1:59 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
No team that has eliminated the Sharks has gone on to win the Cup (that’s a bit of ES research I did right there…).
Including the Sharks themselves, if you’ll believe their fans.
But hey, I don’t hold a lot of cup likelihood in my heart this season — not with the rigors of an 8th seed. Like I said, house money.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 1:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Did this comment thread max out?
Or is everyone just taking their pre-game naps?
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 1:57 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
2 hours now
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 1:59 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
ohhhh, a nap sounds so wonderful right about now. Too damn anxious though
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 2:05 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
oh, and that whole, they frown upon sleeping at work thing
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 2:06 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have a mannequin that looks like me. I set it up in my office, kinda slouched down behind the monitor. I tape the phone to it’s head and close the door. Then curl up under the desk. Works like a charm…. (God I miss Seinfeld)
by Itlan on May 1, 2009 2:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
you can’t check comments tho and see if we are talking behind your back . not that we would mind you. :)
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 2:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
the number of times I’ve looked under my desk and wished for a Costanza apartment…you have no idea.
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 2:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
You know the chant. Go clock go.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 2:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
LOL, just got the same message from Spade…but it was actually about 35 minutes ago.
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 2:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Even though I’m not watching the game until about two hours late today, I’m still using the game as an excuse to leave work early. Which is cool, except this one hour I have left looks like an eternity.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 2:23 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
so have you banned people from contacting you during those two hours and giving you updates?
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 2:25 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ll be shut down, I think — I’ll probably watch some Bruins-Canes, but I’ll be way careful to avoid the out-of-town news.
I don’t know how many of you have my cell #, but I’ll mostly be ignoring that, too. The only text I really want to get is if I need to extend the DVR recording time (which is already set for an hour longer than scheduled).
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 2:30 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ll be watching live, but I will be leaving early. Opted to skip my lunch to leave an hour early.
Normally my days fly by, but damn…another hour before I get to leave…WOW.
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 2:26 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, this day has dragged more than my choir’s alto section.
(Choir humor. As you might suspect, it’s lame.)
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 2:31 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
yea, I’m sure you’re wishing for a Spade “delete/edit” button right about now.
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 2:32 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ve only used it once or twice, but as blog overlord, I actually do have a delete feature. Edit, though? That’s crazy talk.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 2:39 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ve only used it once or twice
shame!!!
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 2:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not worse than band or orchestra humor.
What’s the difference between a coffin and a cello?
The coffin has the dead man inside it.
"Don't touch my dream with your dirty hands!"
by Justice and Rule on May 1, 2009 2:33 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hey, that one’s cool. My sister played cello — she’d get a kick out of that.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 2:38 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ha, I did see one commercial — I thought that was a movie. We’ll see — after the playoffs I keep telling myself I’m getting myself neck deep into “The Wire”, but I’ve lied to myself before.
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 2:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Glee club+Fox=High Drama
Also, DVR rocks.
by Itlan on May 1, 2009 2:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Wire
This probably isn’t the place but I’ll just say it: Dumb.
Nobody cares about your opinion.
by brokenyard on May 1, 2009 7:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
OK, Spade, you win
Because of heavy morning and early-afternoon comment storms, I’ve published a new post just for in-game and post-game comments. With my luck (and non-participation), it’ll probably run about ten comments long. :)
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 3:01 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
ha ha!
Ever get the feeling we are on a collision course with reality?
by ang6666 on May 1, 2009 3:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Er, sorry guys, but I don’t think I’ll be around, either. atdhe.net doesn’t have the video feeds for the game tonight, and I’m having trouble finding it anywhere else on the interwebs.
by g r a c e on May 1, 2009 3:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
you seem very calm about that right now. I’d be livid.
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 3:10 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
and are you sure…? cause I just looked and it’s there….
GO DUCKS!! DUCKSandPUCKS.com
by SK eleven on May 1, 2009 3:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!
I swear, it wasn’t there when I last checked. I was totally on my way out the door to find a sports bar or something!
by g r a c e on May 1, 2009 3:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
That’s horrible, Grace. Get thee to a Versus purveyor, stat!
http://www.battleofcali.com/
by Earl Sleek on May 1, 2009 3:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

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