FanSided » NHL

Bolts by the Bay 2011-12-08 00:23:48

huladoll — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 04:23:48 +0000

UNIONDALE, NY - DECEMBER 06: Marty Reasoner #16 of the New York Islanders leans on Bruno Gervais #27 of the Tampa Bay Lightning at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum on December 6, 2011 in Uniondale, New York. The Islanders defeated the Lightning 5-1. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

Tampa Bay Lightning 1, New York Islanders 5

… [visit site to read more]

- Bolts by the Bay - Bolts by the Bay - A Tampa Bay Lightning Blog

Game Recap – WAS @ OTT – Third Time’s Not A Charm For Senators

Jared Crozier — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 02:58:45 +0000

Jason Chimera and the Capitals did a good job of driving the net against Anderson and the Sens (Photo by Jana Chytilova/Freestyle Photography/Getty Images)

PREGAME WARMUP

After dropping the first contest between the clubs 2-1 in a game that by all rights Ottawa should have won, and then taking the Caps to OT last week before Erik Karlsson‘s blown tire allowed Washington to score and take the extra point, Ottawa tried to make the third time the charm on home ice in a rare Wednesday night tilt at SBP. With the fresh news that Filip Kuba is on the shelf for the next month or so, it is up to both David Rundblad and Brian Lee to show that they deserve to stay in the lineup with the imminent return of Matt Carkner.

Could the Senators finally solve one of the most disappointing teams in the early NHL season and firmly solidify their 8th place positioning? … [visit site to read more]

Game Recap – WAS @ OTT – Third Time’s Not A Charm For Senators - SenShot - SenShot - An Ottawa Senators Blog

With a Great Dane in action, the Canucks keep winning.

tgiacomello — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 01:35:24 +0000

Lately, if you were to pick out the hardest working Canuck most people would say Cory Schneider or one of the Sedins. But if you look deeper into the roster, you can find one player that has played with heart and soul since the season started. Jannik Hansen was voted “Unsung Hero” of the team last year and to be honest, it is looking like he is headed in the same direction.

… [visit site to read more]

With a Great Dane in action, the Canucks keep winning. - The Canuck Way - The Canuck Way - A Vancouver Canucks blog

Crosby Out 2 Games!

jhavelka747 — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 22:42:56 +0000

It was released and reported at 4pm today, that Sidney Crosby would be sitting out the next 2 games at least. Dr. Mickey Collins said that he had passed his impact tests, but stated that they should be cautious with this type of hit. Here is … [visit site to read more]

Crosby Out 2 Games! - Pens Labyrinth - Pens Labyrinth - A Pittsburgh Penguins Blog

Pen’s Gear Up For Jagr

jhavelka747 — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 22:30:31 +0000

Photo NHL.com

Thursday Night, Jaromir Jagr comes Home to the place he started his career, and nearly finished it here. But then at the last minute, he became a Flyer. For a Pittsburgh Penguin Fan, could he have chosen a worse team to play for? I don’t think so!

… [visit site to read more]

Pen’s Gear Up For Jagr - Pens Labyrinth - Pens Labyrinth - A Pittsburgh Penguins Blog

REALIGNMENT, AND WHAT IT MEANS TO ME

realoilfan — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 19:56:30 +0000

… [visit site to read more]

REALIGNMENT, AND WHAT IT MEANS TO ME - Oil On Whyte - Oil On Whyte - An Edmonton Oilers blog

Kings Lose To Ducks In Anaheim

Jon Gillette — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 19:18:25 +0000

(Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)

I’m upset this morning so forgive me, in advance, for my tirade. I’m upset because the Los Angeles Kings lost to a team that is actually less consistent than them. The Anaheim Ducks were in a free-fall and a coaching change didn’t seem to be helping their cause. I’m upset because the “system” doesn’t appear to be a system at all. What it does appear to be is an old school coach trying desperately to generate something from players who have completely tuned him out. I’m upset because the Kings deserved to lose after being outplayed for 40 of the 60 minutes last night. I’m upset because Terry Murray made a great choice to take a timeout when he realized that there was nothing going on during a pivotal power play then followed that great decision with an extremely poor one by putting the Colin Fraser line on the ice with a minute to go (as pointed out by @ThisIsLARyan), ultimately leading to the end zone face-off which lead to the game-winning goal by Bobby Ryan. A domino effect of sorts which concluded with Rob Scuderi not picking up his man and Jonathan Quick not picking up the puck. I’m upset because I see people commenting on Twitter and claiming to be experts when all they’re doing is regurgitating things that other people have said and actually turning questions back on the people who ask them, a “Red Herring” tactic as Dean Lombardi would say. Don’t get me wrong, I’m just a guy who’s a fan and writes a blog. I’m no expert, by any means. My extent of hockey knowledge includes me watching the game for over 30 years and playing in a beer league for 8 years. That being said, even I can see something’s wrong with the coaching staff that we currently have. Provide a list of coaches that would make the Kings better? Don’t bite on that because the list of coaches that would make the Kings worse is a lot shorter. Take a good look at the photo above and you’ll see another reason why I’m upset. … [visit site to read more]

Kings Lose To Ducks In Anaheim - Rink Royalty - Rink Royalty - A LA Kings Blog

Sabres vs Flyers Pre-Game 12-7-11

Megs — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 18:52:56 +0000

Today I’ve decided to do the pre-article a little early, just to get everyone excited for the big match up tonight against the Philadelphia Flyers inside the First Niagara Center. Tonight will be the second of four meetings with the Flyers and the … [visit site to read more]

Sabres vs Flyers Pre-Game 12-7-11 - Sabre Noise - Sabre Noise - A Buffalo Sabres Blog

Krys Barch Traded; Mark Fistric Suspended; Stars Almost At Full Health

Andrew Monrreal — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 18:34:25 +0000

It’s a busy news day for Dallas … [visit site to read more]

Krys Barch Traded; Mark Fistric Suspended; Stars Almost At Full Health - Blackout Dallas - Blackout Dallas - A Dallas Stars blog

Game Preview: Ottawa Senators vs. Washington Capitals

Brandy Chadala — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 18:06:28 +0000

Wednesday December 7th, 2011

7:00pm

TSN, RDS2, Team 1200

8th East (13-11-3) VS. 11th East (13-12-1)

The Senators face-off against the Washington Capitals tonight for the third time already this season, the first two both being one-goal losses for the Sens. The most recent was a 3-2 Overtime victory for the Capitals, who ended the extra period within seconds of it starting. The Senators were able to at least get the one point, and are hoping that this time with home-ice advantage for the first time in this four game series, they will be able to get two points and the win. The Senators come into this game after a strong 4-2 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning just two days ago. The Senators didn’t give in to the trap and with a strong 3 period push – three Sens goals came in the last 13 minutes of the game – they we’re able to come from behind once again.

Washington on the other hand is coming off a 5-4 loss to the Florida Panthers. Alexander Ovechkin is continuing to struggle and has definitely not been having the bounce-back season many were hoping for. Ovechkin only has 19 points so far this season, good for 64th in the league. In an effort to get the Russian winger going, it seems he has been re-united with Alex Semin on a line centered by Nicklas Backstrom. This will certainly be a challenging task for the Sens defense and goaltender Craig Anderson who will be back in net once again. … [visit site to read more]

Game Preview: Ottawa Senators vs. Washington Capitals - SenShot - SenShot - An Ottawa Senators Blog

Black Sheep Jim: The New Bolts By The Bay Writer

Black Sheep Jim — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 18:01:10 +0000

I wanted to take the time to introduce myself to our Bolts By The Bay Readers. My name is James Courteau and I was born and raised on the south side of Tampa Bay in Bradenton, although, nowadays I currently call Texas home. I’ve always had a passion for hockey, especially the Bolts, and after encouragement from a friend of mine, I decided to start writing my thoughts down, instead of just preaching the good Lightning word to friends and family.

It’s been an amazing run for the 21 years the Lightning have been in existence and there have been a lot of great memories and milestones. My father took my sister and me to our first game. I’m not sure of the exact year, but it was back when Daren Puppa was still in net. The game was against the Flyers, and at the end of the 3rd, the two netminders stood and watched as the skaters went in to a 5 on 5 brawl at center ice. Since then I have been hooked. I was living in Georgia when the Lightning lifted the Stanley Cup in 2004. My father was at Game 7 and gave me a call so that I could at least hear the celebration, needless to say, Tampa Bay was rocking! The last memory I want to share, is the first game I took my mother too, which was her first hockey game ever. By the 2nd period, she was shouting at our boys to “hit them,” and crying foul when there was a questionable play. Since then, she has tried to catch every game and learn more about this great team. … [visit site to read more]

Black Sheep Jim: The New Bolts By The Bay Writer - Bolts by the Bay - Bolts by the Bay - A Tampa Bay Lightning Blog

Flyers-Sabres lock up again on Versus tonight

Scott Dargis — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 16:33:41 +0000

It’s been a little over a month since the Flyers and Sabres locked up for another round of good ol’ hockey. Back on November 2nd the Flyers visited Buffalo for the first time since knocking them out of the 2011 playoffs in game 7 of the quarterfinals. Three early goals not only propelled Philadelphia to a 3-2 victory, but Ryan Miller to the bench as well. Just ten days after that game, Miller was drilled by Milan Lucic putting him on the shelf until this past Saturday.

Yes, Miller returned to play and made 32-out of-34 saves in a win over the Nashville Predators. He looked very sharp, almost reminiscent of the Ryan Miller that became the borderline phenom two seasons ago. The Flyers are going to see Miller at full strength tonight, which is exactly what they want. … [visit site to read more]

Flyers-Sabres lock up again on Versus tonight - Broad Street Buzz - Broad Street Buzz - A Philadelphia Flyers Blog

Brave New World

gordonronco — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 16:32:37 +0000

New NHL alignment (image credit: www.tomfulery.com)

Take a good look folks, this is the new look of the NHL. Like a lot of people, I started discussing how the realignment would shape up as soon as the Thrasher’s move to Winnipeg was made official, but this was hardly what my friends and I thought was going to happen. I had a lot of questions when I started writing this that wound up being answered in the process (thank Lord Stanley I get to leave NHLN on at my work’s lobby all day), so now it all makes a bit more sense. … [visit site to read more]

Brave New World - Blades of Teal - Blades of Teal - A San Jose Sharks blog

PreGame Skate: Philadelphia Flyers

Tim Redinger — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 16:14:00 +0000

The Buffalo Sabres need to snap out of their home funk quickly. Tonights opponent is the best road team in the NHL in the Philadelphia Flyers. To date the Flyers and Sabres have met once this season, and the Flyers came out on top in a one goal victory. The Sabres tried to come back in that game, with Jhonas Enroth keeping the team competitive but the offense couldn’t overcome a three goal deficit that happened in the opening six and a half minutes of the first period.

Compounding things for the Buffalo Sabres and their home woes, tonights game opens up a five game homestand. Hopefully with a healthy Ryan Miller in net, the team can come out of this stretch above .500. Their positioning in the standings is precarious at best, holding onto seventh place, just one point out of being on the outside of the bubble.

… [visit site to read more]

PreGame Skate: Philadelphia Flyers - Sabre Noise - Sabre Noise - A Buffalo Sabres Blog

Isles trending upward with 5-1 victory over Bolts

Gary Harding — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 16:03:45 +0000

The Islanders gave up their only goal on the first shot. The seventh time this season that New York has done that in their 25 games. That is an average that a baseball player could nearly have.

Not what a hockey team wants.

But did that let the Isles down?

Hell no.

Three goals for the Islanders before the end of the first frame, propelled the team to the decisive 5-1 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning. Overall, it was an extremely solid game for the Islanders, who were almost masterful in all three zones, and had contributions from all four lines.

Al Montoya, after giving up the first goal to Martin St. Louis, settled down and stopped all 23 shots that would face him afterwards. He was solid, and gave the team ample time to clear pucks in front of hi

… [visit site to read more]

Detroit Gets Rocked in St. Louis

T.J. — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 15:44:16 +0000

The Red Wings rolled into St. Louis for the second meeting between themselves and the Blues, looking for revenge on their November 15th loss. Sorry folks, didn’t happen. The Blues came into this game 2 points behind the Red Wings in the Central division and looked to tie it up at home. This folks, did happen.

The first period was all defense and a showcase of goalies Brian Elliott and Jimmy Howard(Oh, and Brad Stuart). Save after save in the first, ended the period 0-0. Highlight of the period you ask? Well, that’s where Brad Stuart comes in. Nearing the end of the period, the Blues got the puck into the offensive zone. David Perron with the puck, he saw an open Patrick Berglund in front of the net and was able to make a pass. Berglund quickly turned around and tried to shoot it past Howard. With the shot off the stick, Berglund, Stewart, and Perron crashed the net. As the puck was almost over that pretty red line, Wings’ defenseman Brad Stuart slapped the puck clear out of the picture, saving one for Detroit. Now I can’t stand Detroit much like the rest of you Blues fans, but that was a very heads-up play, and for that, I tip my cap to Stuart.

The second period would come out very differently. In fact,the rest of the game would for the Blues. The Blues finally took advantage of something they’ve had a hard time doing so far this season. The power-play. Detroit, however would get the first look at a power-play goal. Jonathon Franzen was able to come from behind the net and skid one past a standing Elliott to put the Wings up 1-0. But not even 2 minutes later, with the Blues now on the power-play, Alexander Steen received a pass and was left open for a slapshot that went five-hole past Howard to tie the game at 1. … [visit site to read more]

Detroit Gets Rocked in St. Louis - Bleedin' Blue - Bleedin' Blue - A St. Louis Blues Blog

Canes Now Winless in Seven Straight

caniac176 — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 14:26:11 +0000

Tlusty scoring his penalty shot goal in the second period (Brad Watson/NHLI via Getty Images)

The Carolina Hurricanes (8-17-4) and Calgary Flames (12-13-2) battled it out last night in a strange, high-scoring affair. Calgary came out hard in the first period, putting 10 shots on goal in just the first few minutes of the game and it looks like the Canes just couldn’t get their feet out from underneath them. The Flames scored their first goal just 3:07 in from Jerome Iginla and registered another one late in the period from Lee Stempniak as Calgary lead 2-0 after the first. It wouldn’t take long into the second period for the Flames to strike again as Brendan Morrison scored just 42 seconds in. Jiri Tlusty was awarded a penalty shot after not being able to register a scoring chance on a breakaway at 5:39, and made a beautiful move to beat Miikka Kiprusoff. Tim Brent, who was scratched in the previous game against Pittsburgh, netted his 3rd of the season and the Canes were only behind by 1. Rene Bourque quickly regained the Flames’ 2-goal lead, just 50 seconds after Brent’s goal. The third period ended up being a scoring frenzy, with the Canes outscoring the Flames 4-3 in the frame, including 2 goals in the last minute from Chad LaRose and Eric Staal. At the end of the day, the Flames skated away with a 7-6 victory.

… [visit site to read more]

Canes Now Winless in Seven Straight - Cardiac Cane - Cardiac Cane - A Carolina Hurricanes Blog

REDlines: Occupy Radical Realignment.

Frank Rekas — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 14:24:53 +0000

Before I get started check out the latest video from Backhand Shelf and Down Goes Brown: Coach Killer!

The new realignment has caused enough controversy in 48 hours to potentially last a season, and since the NHLPA hasn’t voted yet, the chatter will continue until they do….any beyond. While some of the conferences make sense, I don’t see too much that’s all that crazy. I gave my stance on it yesterday here, and for the most part I still feel the same way. It’s good, it creates some interesting rivalries, and maintains some old ones. We can’t have everything, and knowing that no matter what the NHL did someone wasn’t going to be happy. Embrace it everyone. Change is good. Links after the jump. … [visit site to read more]

REDlines: Occupy Radical Realignment. - The Rat Trick - The Rat Trick - A Florida Panthers Blog

Sens at the WJC – Some Prospects Get The Call, Others Snubbed

Jared Crozier — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 13:53:24 +0000

The Ottawa Senators will have a presence at this year’s World Junior Championships in Calgary and Edmonton. So far, preliminary rosters have been named for many countries and there have been some Sens prospects who have got the call, at least to selection camps. Perhaps even bigger news was the absence of a couple of last summer’s first round picks who were left off their respective countries’ invite list.

CANADA … [visit site to read more]

Sens at the WJC – Some Prospects Get The Call, Others Snubbed - SenShot - SenShot - An Ottawa Senators Blog

Freeway Faceoff Part 3: Ducks Finally Win One

Michael Lombardi — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 05:35:36 +0000

NO KINGS NO!
DUCKS WIN! DUCKS WIN! DUCKS WIN!!!!
The Ducks finally get a win, and it couldn’t have been against a better opponent. The Queens were unable to beat the Ducks, who actually looked like a real team! Hiller had an amazing game, the offense put on tons of pressure and the defense was smart.
Game Recap/Notes:
First Period: Ducks look sharp, which has been a common theme in the third period. Quick makes a critical error and is caught out of net, Ryan buries a rebound!! (ANA-1, LAK-0). Bit of back and forth going on, shots tied at 5 each. Selanne and Koivu had a solid 2-on-1 but offsides was called. Ducks actually have some defense tonight. Its very odd. Getzlaf throws a pass right to Perry who is directly in front of the net and tips it in! (ANA-2, LAK-0).
… [visit site to read more]
Freeway Faceoff Part 3: Ducks Finally Win One - Ducks Daily Blog - Ducks Daily Blog - An Anaheim Ducks Blog

The Good, The Bad And The Return Of Reimer

Myles Robinson — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 04:51:15 +0000

Well, can’t exactly say the Leafs didn’t deserve to lose this one, as they came out of the gate sluggish as all hell, and needed some quality netminding from James Reimer to keep them within striking distance. Give them credit for battling back, though, and they had more than a few chances to take the game. Play poorly enough, and the bad bounces won’t just make things interesting, they’ll cost you the game, and that’s exactly what happened tonight.
The Good
Phil Kessel didn’t score his prettiest goal of the year, but he is back tied with Jonathan Toews for the league lead in goals with 17. And, it was another powerplay goal for the league’s 2nd best powerplay. Couple of facts that should keep the stat-hounds of Leaf Nation happy (myself included) – but hey, it’s a been awhile since we really had anything to brag about. … [visit site to read more]
The Good, The Bad And The Return Of Reimer - Editor In Leaf - Editor In Leaf - A Toronto Maple Leafs Blog

Thoughts On Tampa Bay Lightning’s 1-3-1

Black Sheep Jim — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 02:59:26 +0000

Now I am sure that most of you who are reading this have already rolled their eyes after seeing the title. Either in disgust (because it’s the 1-3-1) or because they are tired of hearing the argument. Both sides of the argument have their merits, however I wanted to share my feelings on the matter, to bring in what I hope to be a different perspective.
November 9, 2011, a day that will forever be known as the day the Tampa 1-3-1 (to be read like Kiffin’s Tampa 2 when he was with the Buccaneers) drove Mike Milbury off the NHL on Versus set. The day when the Philadelphia Flyers, stood in their defensive end with the puck, not willing to attack, not willing to play… and being applauded for it in some circles, being applauded for inaction (or as they would have you believe, for exposing why the Tampa 1-3-1 is “bad for hockey.”) As Chris Pronger said “It’s not hockey in my book. … But whatever. The league is letting them do it. Would you pay money to watch that?” Well Mr. Pronger, I would pay money to watch the Lightning execute a 1-3-1 (or trap), rather than pay money to watch y’all sit back and not play the puck. (On an additional note this was Coach Guy Boucher’s response when asked about the 1-3-1 and the Flyers not attacking)
That night I was in, let’s say, a discussion with a number of Flyers fans, who were in essence claiming the 1-3-1 to be an affront to hockey, blasphemy in the eyes of the great hockey gods. I listened to their arguments, agreed that I would like to see a little more fore checking by the Bolts, but that the inaction of the Philadelphia Flyers was a greater injustice to the Canon Law of Hockey. As one can imagine, that of course, did not go over too well. … [visit site to read more]
Thoughts On Tampa Bay Lightning’s 1-3-1 - Bolts by the Bay - Bolts by the Bay - A Tampa Bay Lightning Blog

Preview of Game 27: Los Angeles Kings

Sean McCaulley — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 01:05:21 +0000

The more I look at these jerseys, the more sick they look. (via hockey-jerseys.ca)
Wow, it’s been a while. Unfortunately, I had some complications with my laptop and my internet with my school, so I wasn’t really able to make any posts. UNTIL NOW. The Kings visit the Honda Center tonight. Here’s my preview: … [visit site to read more]
Preview of Game 27: Los Angeles Kings - Ducks Daily Blog - Ducks Daily Blog - An Anaheim Ducks Blog

Marty St. Louis’ 800th point!

huladoll — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 00:54:18 +0000

visit site to read more]
Marty St. Louis’ 800th point! - Bolts by the Bay - Bolts by the Bay - A Tampa Bay Lightning Blog

Canes Face Flames in Calgary: Game Day Preview

Sally M. Brown — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 00:08:26 +0000

After a heartbreaking loss to Pittsburgh on Saturday, the Canes traveled to Alberta to prepare to face the Calgary Flames to begin a four game Canadian road trip. The Flames are coming off of a 5-1 loss to the Vancouver Canucks and are struggling through their season with an 11-13-2 record overall. They are third to last in the Western Conference above the Ducks and Blue Jackets. The 8-16-4 Canes are not faring better, as they sit in last place in the Eastern Conference trailing the New York Islanders who have games at hand. That was painful to write.

Fans and the team alike are hoping this road trip will bring the first win for new head coach Kirk Muller. In what would normally seem to be an inconsequential game, I feel the team’s pride and morale are at stake.

… [visit site to read more]

Canes Face Flames in Calgary: Game Day Preview - Cardiac Cane - Cardiac Cane - A Carolina Hurricanes Blog

Lightning Fall To Senators 4-2

huladoll — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 00:06:37 +0000

Tampa Bay/Ottawa Game Recap
The Lightning took on The Senators in Ottawa. At one point Tampa Bay had the lead, but it quickly crumbled and The Senators defeated them 4-2.

… [visit site to read more]
Lightning Fall To Senators 4-2 - Bolts by the Bay - Bolts by the Bay - A Tampa Bay Lightning Blog

Realignment: My Thoughts on the New Format

Cody Pugh — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 00:03:39 +0000

Unless you were hiding underneath a rock somewhere yesterday you probably heard that the proposal the NHL put forward to the Board of Governors was approved. While there’s still a few “i’s” to be dotted and “t’s” to be crossed, the NHL is going with a 4 conference layout, with 2 Western Conferences having 8 teams each and 2 Eastern Conferences having 7 teams each. The top four teams in each Conference will advance to the playoffs, with the Conference champs battling it out to see who goes to the Stanley Cup Finals. Its still unclear exactly how the Conference winners will be seeded but I would imagine it will be based on regular season records.

Let’s take a closer look at alignment, how it affects the Hawks and what I do/don’t like about the format.

… [visit site to read more]

Realignment: My Thoughts on the New Format - Blackhawk Up - Blackhawk Up - A Chicago Blackhawks Blog

Proposed Realignment, My Thoughts and Opinions

John Panarese — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 23:11:35 +0000

The NHL Board of Governors approved a plan to realign the league next season. Obviously, with the Atlanta franchise moving to Winnipeg and playing in the South-East division, this was going to be necessary.
Thus, the league has taken steps to try to align the league in a way that makes sense. With teams like the Detroit Redwings and Columbus Blue Jackets unhappy about having to play so many western teams and making it difficult on the fan base to watch the games, as well as the travel on the team itself, it was also inevitable that such issues would also be addressed. To be honest, though, I personally wasn’t expecting a plan to be announced so quickly and with the approval of the board.
Of course, the NHLPA has to “approve” of the plan, but this is more of a formality than anything else. Furthermore, in most cases, it wouldn’t seem like most of the players would object to the changes. It will ease on travel for the “middle” teams and it seems to make sense as far as how the system will be set up. … [visit site to read more]
Proposed Realignment, My Thoughts and Opinions - Eyes On Isles - Eyes On Isles - A New York Islanders Blog

Pre-Game Canucks vs Avalanche

tgiacomello — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 22:46:13 +0000

Injuries have caused a lot of problems with the Vancouver Canucks over the years, usually it affects the Canucks’ defense men, but the newest victim of the injury bug is Chris Higgins. He will not be in the Canucks’ line up due to a foot infection. The Canucks have called up Chicago Wolves forward Victor Oreskovich, they needed to add some grit into the line up since Aaron Volpatti will be out for the season with a shoulder injury. Oreskovich had 3 points last year and 8 PIMS in in 16 games in the regular season last year – yeah not stellar numbers, but for a fourth line grinder, he did everything he could do for the team in the role he was given. He is put into the line up tonight to do exactly that, be physical and try to replace the physicality we lost in Volpatti.
… [visit site to read more]
Pre-Game Canucks vs Avalanche - The Canuck Way - The Canuck Way - A Vancouver Canucks blog

Patriots Hockey Invades Staples Center

Jon Gillette — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 22:25:12 +0000

Patriots Hockey
Alright Kings Fans, time to step up and help support our troops! I know; this is not your typical RinkRoyalty.com post but this is a great cause and one that’s near and dear to me since my wife has been active duty Navy for 20 years now. The Patriots Hockey team is invading Staples Center and the’ll be taking on the LA Fire Fighters team immediately following the Los Angeles Kings versus the Dallas Stars game on January 12, 2012. You’ll need to act fast and order your tickets through patriots.hockeyteam@gmail.com by December 15, 2011. During the game, you will have a chance to win various autographed items (signed by Kings and Stars players). Items up for raffle include shirts, jerseys, sticks, and more! Proceeds from the event will benefit the Wounded Warrior Project, Toys for Tots, and other various military charities. Also worth noting is that there will be a ceremony honoring Purple Heart recipients, a medal for soldiers wounded in action. Be prepared for a truly moving experience if you’ve never witnessed an event like this.
… [visit site to read more]
Patriots Hockey Invades Staples Center - Rink Royalty - Rink Royalty - A LA Kings Blog

Conference Realignment: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly

Tamara Bingley — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 22:21:12 +0000

On Monday the NHL board of governors approved the new four conference format for the NHL. These conferences are currently unnamed and will be as follows:
Conference A: Anaheim, San Jose, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Edmonton, Calgary, Colorado, and Vancouver.
Conference B: Chicago, Columbus, Dallas, Detroit, Minnesota, Nashville, St. Louis, and Winnipeg.
Conference C: Boston, Buffalo, Florida, Montreal, Ottawa, Tampa Bay, and Toronto.
Conference D: Carolina, New Jersey, NY Islanders, NY Rangers, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Washington.
THE GOOD
The best thing regarding the Vancouver Canucks that will come out of this NHL conference realignment is going to be the reduction of travel. The Canucks will play every team outside of their conference twice; one at home and one away. This means that instead of travelling all the way to Chicago twice during regular season, it will now only be once. The Canucks will play teams within their conference 5 or 6 times the amount of games will rotate each season. This makes travel a lot easier because within the conference there is little time change and it allows more time spent in the pacific time zone. … [visit site to read more]
Conference Realignment: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly - The Canuck Way - The Canuck Way - A Vancouver Canucks blog

Rangers May Have Voted Against New Realignment Plan

James Wrabel — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 21:16:11 +0000

NHL
News broke last night that the NHL Board of Governors had passed the new realignment plan for next season by a 26-4 vote. However, Pierre LeBrun of ESPN tweeted earlier today one of the teams he feels voted against it was the New York Rangers:
I believe the Rangers were one of the 4 teams that voted No vs. this re-alignment proposal. I think they were content with 6-div format
Join me after the jump to find out why I feel this is the case. … [visit site to read more]

NHL Approves Radical Realignment. Good Or Bad For The Panthers?

Frank Rekas — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 19:51:22 +0000

Image Source: Puck Daddy, CBC Sports
While the Florida Panthers were in the process of widening their lead over their current division rival the Washington Capitals, the NHL Board of Governors were voting on approving a new conference system that would begin next season. The two conference system that’s currently in place with four divisions, will be replaced by four conferences with the intent of building rivalries within each conference. By a vote of 26-4 the new format, which still needs to be approved by the NHLPA, will now guarantee that each team visits each NHL city at least once throughout the year. Meaning everyone gets to see Sidney Crosby and Jonathan Toews in their building at least once a season.
The inner conference games will make up 36 games on the schedule, and the remaining 46 will be home and home games against the rest of the league. The plans to realign had been in the works recently especially with the relocation of the Atlanta Thrashers to Winnipeg, which has caused the most concern since they are no longer anywhere near their current Southeast division rivals.
… [visit site to read more]
NHL Approves Radical Realignment. Good Or Bad For The Panthers? - The Rat Trick - The Rat Trick - A Florida Panthers Blog

Wings Score Big With Realignment

iandunham13 — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 19:35:31 +0000

After analyzing the regressive shuffling of NHL clubs last night, “Our rivalry basically just ended”, is what I sent via Facebook to a pal who roots for San Jose. This is not entirely true, but last night a message was sent to all, that what we have been asking for is on its way: A dramatic decrease in trips to California and Western Canada.
Actually, this is not entirely true either. A union ratification is pending.
But an NHLPA approval of this realignment seems to be a given.
All of Detroit, dislocated fans included, should be pleased by this change. … [visit site to read more]

Tootoo Suspended for “Only” Two Games. Really.

dandbradley — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 19:32:56 +0000

No comment. (PHOTO- AP)

During the preseason, I was calling into to the local radio show here in Nashville talking about how much I liked the idea of consistency through videos regarding the NHL’s new disciplinary system. “Videos will force them to be consistent” I so confidently said. (And no, this is not comparable to Lucic vs. Miller) But I was happy that NHL suspensions would now make sense.

The ruling has came down on our beloved tormentor and agitator, Jordin Tootoo. Brendan Shanahan and the NHL disciplinary crew released a video showing why they decided to suspend Tootoo for two games. After playing it a couple times, sounds like they really tried hard not to piss anyone off.

They failed in this regard.

… [visit site to read more]

Tootoo Suspended for “Only” Two Games. Really. - Predlines - Predlines - A Nashville Predators blog

REALIGNMENT: is it duct tape, superglue, or a weld?

dandbradley — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 18:02:16 +0000

Golf definitely played a role in this. PHOTO- RawCharge.com

FOUR conferences? Not divisions, but conferences? HUH? The scary thing is that it actually does make sense. Some teams won, other teams lost. Some teams are convincing themselves that they won when in reality they lost horribly. Realignment has finally been announced, and we have no choice but to talk about it, and laugh.

Decisions made from desperation
No way to go
Internal instincts craving isolation
For me to grow

My fears come alive
In this place where I once died
Demons dreaming
Knowing I…I just needed to realign

-Godsmack, “Realign”

… [visit site to read more]

REALIGNMENT: is it duct tape, superglue, or a weld? - Predlines - Predlines - A Nashville Predators blog

Wings vs. Blues: Round 2

T.J. — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 18:00:26 +0000

Photo via NHL.com
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Wings vs. Blues: Round 2 - Bleedin' Blue - Bleedin' Blue - A St. Louis Blues Blog

A Day in the NHL: Conference Re-Alignment, Tootoo De-Railed?

bryanthiel — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 17:49:12 +0000

The Night that Was:

In a chippy affair, the Boston Bruins and Pittsburgh Penguins squared off last night, showcasing two of the Eastern Conference’s best teams. It was a scoreless first period as Tim Thomas only had to make six saves, while Marc-Andre Fleury stopped 11. The Bruins were able to move ahead in the second as Gregory Campbell’s second of the season and Benoit Pouliot’s four staked the B’s to a 2-0 lead. Tyler Seguin would slam a one-timer past Fleury early in the third period on the power play to open up a 3-0 lead, before Matt Cooke would make it 3-1. Despite an unbelievable 23 shots in the third period, that’s as close as the Pens would get though. Despite a combined 14 shots from Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby, the two superstars were both held scoreless, while Rich Peverley led all scorers with two assists. Thomas made 45 saves for the win. … [visit site to read more]

A Day in the NHL: Conference Re-Alignment, Tootoo De-Railed? - Too Many Men on the Site - Too Many Men on the Site - A NHL blog

Ducks Collapse under Adversity (this is news?)

Joe Barrett — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 17:43:37 +0000

I made some notes about the Ducks v. Flyers game in hopes that I’d have a chance to write about it when it was still fresh. Unfortunately a gnarly nasal infection has had me feeling miserable the past couple of days. I also assumed that the Minnesota game on Sunday would make what I was going to say about last Fridays game against Philadelphia obsolete. Unfortunately that wasn’t the case.
I had the luxury of sitting in Section 227, seat 10, row M for the game against Philadelphia. For those of you who are unaware of the advantages of sitting in this particular seat, it is at just the perfect angle and distance from the ice to hear Ryan Getzlaf scream obscenities and to see his face as he smashes his stick in to the glass. I’d even swear that we made eye contact. It was the perfect ending to what was already a wondrous meltdown by the Ducks.
… [visit site to read more]
Ducks Collapse under Adversity (this is news?) - Ducks Daily Blog - Ducks Daily Blog - An Anaheim Ducks Blog

Lost in the Wash: Bears & Stingrays Snag Individual Honors

M. Richter — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 16:30:47 +0000

The last week has been a busy one. New coach for the Caps. New assistant coach for the Caps. Boudreau landed a new NHL gig in record time. There was the first Caps win under Hunter, followed by last night’s version of PantherGate. Realignment. The list goes on.
(Signpost image credit: Eamon Curry. Team logos are property of their respective leagues)
In all of the excitement, it’s easy to overlook the rest of the goings-on in the Caps family. Luckily, that’s why Capitals Outsider has me. Because our AHL and ECHL affiliates deserve some love, too, and damn, have they been earning it lately.
… [visit site to read more]
Lost in the Wash: Bears & Stingrays Snag Individual Honors - Capitals Outsider - Capitals Outsider - A Washington Capitals blog