I forgot to tell you! SABRES NATION has moved to a bigger, better site!
The same writing, the same pictures!
Just a better community I'm involved in-
So I'm proud (and a bit sad) to announce sabresnation.blogspot.com is dead...
because http://www.sabresnation.com/blog/ is now the official blogging site of Pat Green!
So change your bookmarks- the site will be going through some more upgrades, soon, too!
5.04.2007
5.01.2007
The NO GOAL Returns For The Third Time!
2-0 Rangers.But wait! Ten minutes left!
If we start playing now, we'll win!
Ales Kotalik, right, took a beautiful feed and chipped it by Henrik Lundqvist to cut the Ranger lead in half. Buffalo fans started sweating, remembering the numerous third period comebacks, especially against Toronto in early March.
Buffalo seemed to have a switch flipped and played with real determination and heart for the remaining time. The Rangers' trap defense foiled them more times than not in the neutral zone, but the Sabres never let the Rangers really control the puck. They constantly brought the puck in and tested Lundqvist, who seemed to be a wall.
And after all that, the Rangers iced the puck at about 90 seconds. Lindy Ruff decided to use his timeout at that point, and from there on, Ryan Miller was on the bench.
The Sabres kept the puck in the Offensive zone and placed extreme pressure for the last of the game.
With an empty net, Sean Avery dumps the puck down towards it, only to have Brian Cambell touch up from icing, bringing the puck back to the right of Lundqvist.
Chris Drury won his second draw there only to have the puck stolen by Brad Isbister. The puck was thrown down the ice again, with Cambell touching up for icing again. These plays were big mistakes for the Rangers because of the new rules. In the new NHL, lines can not be changed by the offending team on an icing. Drury wins his third consecutive faceoff in the same spot and drops it back. The Rangers tip it outside the blue line.
Campbell tosses the puck in and chases like a madman, as Lundqvist is coming out of the net to play it. Daniel Briere is coming hard through the opposite slot to pinch the puck in. Lundqvist makes a Ty Conklin (click here to see what I'm talking about - sorry about the video, it's the only one I could find) and leaves the puck there under pressure.
The Sabres dumped the puck in and Lundqvist stepped out to play it. No way! Daniel Briere takes the puck away, turns, and shoots the puck at an empty net!
Continue to find out what happened.
The ten minute men showed up once again tonight, taking the roster spots of what has been the hardest working team in the NHL for the better part of a decade.
The Sabres found themselves in a two goal hole with less than twelve minutes left in the game. The Rangers had outplayed the Sabres the whole game, and pretty badly.
The Rangers came out with the typical home storm, and the Sabres weathered it well. Unfortunately, they never adequately countered, often being shut down in the neutral zone. The biggest culprit of the night was leaving the puck behind and not making the accurate passes that are so necessary on bad ice.
It's no secret that the Garden has bad ice. There are, I believe, five floors below the ice at MSG, and the heat rising through the ice keeps it softer than it really should be.
If you are wondering why it matters if the ice is soft, I'll quickly give you an overview. The soft ice makes it hard for players to dig in and get a good push off to change directions, speed up for breaks, and stop. You will see lots of players lose edges and look sluggish on this ice. Also, puck handling is hindered, because the softer ice is, the more it acts like a spring, sending the puck end over end and bouncing all over.
I will not use the ice as an excuse, and neither will any player on the Sabres. Chris Drury, in his Sunday postgame said "the ice is not an excuse. Both teams had to deal with it." and that is that. I will say that the Rangers have played on it 41 times this season, and surely are more adept at dealing with it than the Sabres are, who haven't played on it in nearly six months.
But nothing excuses the fact that the highest-powered team in the NHL, the Buffalo Sabres, have scored only two goals in the past eight periods. That's less than a goal a game, after averaging over three goals a game during the season.
Disastrous.
Continued from above:
Briere stuffs the puck in the net. Somehow, Lundqvist got there and smothered the puck before it found the back of the net. But wait, the play goes under review.
It's too early to find a video or screenshots of the replay on the internet yet. But I will explain that the puck was on the red line by less than one quarter of an inch and then continued it's momentum under Lundqvist's skate...but disappeared before there was any definitive white ice between the red line and the outline of the puck.
Common sense says it was in, but camera angles do not show any frame where you can see the entire puck behind the line.
I hate to say it, but Toronto made the correct call. As a Sabres fan, I of course wanted that puck to go in, but as an NHL enthusiast, I had to say it wasn't a goal, though I prayed it was. We all know that puck crossed the line, but no one can prove it with any evidence.
Tomorrow, my pregame analysis for game 6 on Friday, at HSBC arena.
4.29.2007
Sabres Head to Game 4 After Dropping Double Overtime Thriller
The Sabres split the last two games with the Rangers after playing two completely different styles of hockey. The dominating 5-2 game win in game one was a masterful performance all around, from the beginning to end, with only one small hiccough.
That was a last minute goal scored by Brendan Shanahan on a one time rocket from the top of the faceoff circle. The defense played masterfully, keeping Jaromir Jagr and his linemates to zero points. Henrik Tallinder and Toni Lydman, both right, really stepped their game up for Jagr, who's always a huge threat to any team he's playing.
The Sabres hit pretty well that game and the defense picked their opportunites to jump in offensively very well. This led to very few quality shots from the Rangers, even though their shot total was over 30.
Game two was a similar, yet different gameplan. Offensively, the Sabres released the pressure on point shots, but really put a hurting on the Rangers with BIG hits throughout the game, highlighted by Ales Kotalik, Danius Zubrus, and Adam Mair, the Sabres' biggest bruising tandem.
For the first two periods, Buffalo had placed such a demand on taking the body of the Rangers that they had only accumulated nine shots on goal and found themselves in a 2-1 hole at the start of the third.
After the faceoff win by Drury, the Sabres moved the puck in the offensive zone for about 10 seconds of pressure. On the outlet, Marek Malik made a terrible pass that ended up beign a giveaway to Toni Lydman who ripped a shot on Henrik Lundqvist and Chris Drury redirected it over the keeper's shoulder to tie the game.
The third was ALL Buffalo, no matter who watched the game. Ryan Miller stood on his head for a couple saves, but the Sabres put over seven real quality shots on goal of their nine.
The biggest hits were Danius Zubrus' (right) though. Zubrus in his second best hit of the night undercut Jaromir Jagr with his hip and sent him flying. Click here to view it.
My favorite hit of the night was Zubrus' best. In the neutral zone, Zubrus made a bad pass to Chris Drury. Sean Avery, the pesty antagonist was coming on the ice over a line change and as soon as he touched the puck, Zubrus sent him flying.
I almost think Zubrus saw that Avery was getting on the ice and made that pass on purpose, it was that perfect of a play...and Zubrus was already following his pass.
Game three was the first game the Sabres have played at Madison Square Garden in over five months. The Sabres were slowed by the ice, which was horrid. Unfortunately, so was the officiating, highlighted with a no-goal call on the Rangers that would have seen them up 2-0.
Ultimately, the game was Ryan Miller vs. Henrik Lundqvist. Sloppy play highlighted both teams and scoring was thwarted by bouncing pucks, making this game a heartstopper.
The Rangers finally beat Miller on Mikael Rosival's shot from the point, with less than five minutes left in double overtime.
The Sabres are up 2-1 in the series and play the Rangers Tuesday night at MSG.
4.25.2007
How to beat the Rangers, Ahem, the 'Other' New York Team
The Rangers Main Threats
Brendan Shanahan, right, arguably the classiest player in the league, is always a force to be reckoned with. He's got miles of heart, and his huge body will do ANYTHING to w
in the game. Think of him as a bigger stronger, older Drury. Drury's still faster and more clutch though.
Jaromir Jagr has been playing some of the best hockey of his career lately. He has been compared to his Pittsburgh Cup winning teams lately. He is a European, though...usually, a few bumps early on takes him from the game. I'm willing to bet the Rangers are looking for that and will respond.
Peter Prucha was silent last series, but he's a fast, accurate sniper who WILL pose danger unless we lay the smack down on him or are CONSISTANTLY taking away his shooting lanes.
Michael Nylander is an underrated player, much like Antoine Vermette of Ottawa. Extremely good puck handlers and deceptively quick with the puck. Rarely do you see him make a bad giveaway. Not a TERRIBLE backchecker, either. Did I mention he leads the league in points at the moment?
Ryan Callahan may be the offensive X-factor for this series for the Rangers. This Rochester boy is very fast, though small, and has a pretty good eye for the puck. Think of him as a less talented and explosive Daniel Briere. We can't take him for granted.
Henrik Lundqvist only started against Buffalo once this season. But, that's ancient history anyways, since the last time we played them was December 1st, and their record has been nearly identical to ours since that point. He's made some DAZZLING saves, but really hasn't been tested in a closely contested game against Atlanta. That's his only drawback so far. Oh, yeah, his skills at handling the puck...pretty deplorable. Dump and chase will work much better against this team.
NYR defense is pretty big. Only one player is really slow, in Marek Malik. Malik's size more than makes up for it, however. His reach is phenomenal and he will take the body to the boards at most opportunities. I don't think we should battle in the corners on him for much.
While the Rangers will finish checks, mostly their defenders and fourth line, I don't expect any dirty play this series. The Rangers are pretty clean, even Ryan Hollweg. At worst, he's known for borderline hits, which I think is more than reasonable from a big fourth liner.
Buffalo Keys:
The RAV line, Stafford, Connolly, and Hecht are going to be the most important contributors to this series.
The Rangers will be trying to contain Briere and Pominville, with their scoring abilities, so Jochen will have to finish his shots and be even better than he was.
Stafford will need to continue to play the game he played last series. I wouldn't say no to him scoring more, though. He is a huge part of that fourth line and he's going to have to get on Avery...I'm sure Avery will be sent out to bother Connolly. The rook's gonna have to get up in Avery's grill.
Connolly needs to expose the fourth line of the Rangers. We need almost a goal a game from them in this series, and with Mair playing the way he has been and Stafford's ability around the net, I don't think I'm expecting too much. Connolly's been a pleasant surprise, but I'm still not sold on his noggin.
The RAV needs to control the puck without giveaways and not get caught in the Offensive zone or the Neutral Zone cherry picking (ahem, Max, ahem). Vanek needs to find a way to play with Max like he does with Stafford. Max needs to pass the puck more and not carry it. Roy hasn't been bad and he hasn't been good. We need his form from the last 20 games of the season, however.
Defense:
Garrett, on the previous post, asked a question which many will surely be thinking. "do you think we should play that collapsable 1-2-2 trap we did for so long"
Well, Garrett, in a word, ABSOLUTELY. In the short time we did use it, about 8 games, we shut down the opposition and still scored about four goals a game. I don't need to see 5,6,7 goals scored by the Sabres, especially when the opposition scores 3 or more.
Buffalo allowed 3 or more goals in about fifty games this season. Only three teams allowed less goals of the 16 teams that advanced to the tournament. To me, that signifies that 3 or 4 goals a game and a solid defense is more important.
The versatile 1-2-2 defense we played really knocked a lot of offenses for a loop. I've never seen a trap mobilize off a transition offense in my life, and I really liked the way it worked. Because of the amount of skating that is done for it, though, and knowing Ruff, I wouldn't be surprised if he's saving the defense that hasn't been seen for a tougher series or when they get down in a game.
I'll answer your other questions in the next post, to save the length. As well as a game 1 recap.
Brendan Shanahan, right, arguably the classiest player in the league, is always a force to be reckoned with. He's got miles of heart, and his huge body will do ANYTHING to w
in the game. Think of him as a bigger stronger, older Drury. Drury's still faster and more clutch though.Jaromir Jagr has been playing some of the best hockey of his career lately. He has been compared to his Pittsburgh Cup winning teams lately. He is a European, though...usually, a few bumps early on takes him from the game. I'm willing to bet the Rangers are looking for that and will respond.
Peter Prucha was silent last series, but he's a fast, accurate sniper who WILL pose danger unless we lay the smack down on him or are CONSISTANTLY taking away his shooting lanes.
Michael Nylander is an underrated player, much like Antoine Vermette of Ottawa. Extremely good puck handlers and deceptively quick with the puck. Rarely do you see him make a bad giveaway. Not a TERRIBLE backchecker, either. Did I mention he leads the league in points at the moment?
Ryan Callahan may be the offensive X-factor for this series for the Rangers. This Rochester boy is very fast, though small, and has a pretty good eye for the puck. Think of him as a less talented and explosive Daniel Briere. We can't take him for granted.
Henrik Lundqvist only started against Buffalo once this season. But, that's ancient history anyways, since the last time we played them was December 1st, and their record has been nearly identical to ours since that point. He's made some DAZZLING saves, but really hasn't been tested in a closely contested game against Atlanta. That's his only drawback so far. Oh, yeah, his skills at handling the puck...pretty deplorable. Dump and chase will work much better against this team.
NYR defense is pretty big. Only one player is really slow, in Marek Malik. Malik's size more than makes up for it, however. His reach is phenomenal and he will take the body to the boards at most opportunities. I don't think we should battle in the corners on him for much.
While the Rangers will finish checks, mostly their defenders and fourth line, I don't expect any dirty play this series. The Rangers are pretty clean, even Ryan Hollweg. At worst, he's known for borderline hits, which I think is more than reasonable from a big fourth liner.
Buffalo Keys:
The RAV line, Stafford, Connolly, and Hecht are going to be the most important contributors to this series.
The Rangers will be trying to contain Briere and Pominville, with their scoring abilities, so Jochen will have to finish his shots and be even better than he was.
Stafford will need to continue to play the game he played last series. I wouldn't say no to him scoring more, though. He is a huge part of that fourth line and he's going to have to get on Avery...I'm sure Avery will be sent out to bother Connolly. The rook's gonna have to get up in Avery's grill.
Connolly needs to expose the fourth line of the Rangers. We need almost a goal a game from them in this series, and with Mair playing the way he has been and Stafford's ability around the net, I don't think I'm expecting too much. Connolly's been a pleasant surprise, but I'm still not sold on his noggin.
The RAV needs to control the puck without giveaways and not get caught in the Offensive zone or the Neutral Zone cherry picking (ahem, Max, ahem). Vanek needs to find a way to play with Max like he does with Stafford. Max needs to pass the puck more and not carry it. Roy hasn't been bad and he hasn't been good. We need his form from the last 20 games of the season, however.
Defense:
Garrett, on the previous post, asked a question which many will surely be thinking. "do you think we should play that collapsable 1-2-2 trap we did for so long"
Well, Garrett, in a word, ABSOLUTELY. In the short time we did use it, about 8 games, we shut down the opposition and still scored about four goals a game. I don't need to see 5,6,7 goals scored by the Sabres, especially when the opposition scores 3 or more.
Buffalo allowed 3 or more goals in about fifty games this season. Only three teams allowed less goals of the 16 teams that advanced to the tournament. To me, that signifies that 3 or 4 goals a game and a solid defense is more important.
The versatile 1-2-2 defense we played really knocked a lot of offenses for a loop. I've never seen a trap mobilize off a transition offense in my life, and I really liked the way it worked. Because of the amount of skating that is done for it, though, and knowing Ruff, I wouldn't be surprised if he's saving the defense that hasn't been seen for a tougher series or when they get down in a game.
I'll answer your other questions in the next post, to save the length. As well as a game 1 recap.
4.22.2007
Sabres Need No Further Direction Than I-90
Well, SABRES NATION, here we go, 6 hours down the I-90 once again. The New Jersey Devils defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning today, 3-2, to clinch the series. Martin Brodeur finally played the way he did in the entire regular season. Brad Richards, the third of the Lightning's three man attack, scored two goals in an attempt to singlehandedly force a game 7. Unfortunately, he did not accomplish his goal. Leaving the East matchups as:
#1 Buffalo Sabres vs. #6 New York Rangers
#2 New Jersey Devils vs #4 Ottawa Senators
The Sabres overall play in the Islanders series, unfortunately, was poor. Starting right from the draw, the Sabres underachieved through every game from game 2 on. I can excuse Chris Drury's poor faceoff performance this series, because it was against one of the top drawmen in the league, in Mike Sillinger. Besides that, the Sabres did hold a slight edge in faceoffs, led by the less-than-good at draws Daniel Briere and Derek Roy.
The Sabres coasted a lot, we saw that by allowing a team like the Islanders keep games close. Outside of game one, the Sabres never flexed their muscles, built on leads, or made the Islanders sorry they made the playoffs. Game one was all Sabres from taking the body from Ryan Smyth, to not letting the defense up and to keep scoring.
Best players of the series:
#3a - Adam Mair. This fourth line agitator strung together five marvelous performances to score a goal and two assists- and if I could, I'd give him an extra assist for WRECKING Richard Zednik to start the play that ended with his goal.
#3b - Dmitri Kalinin, right. Kalinin, other than one hiccough of a giveaway, played excellent shut down hockey. Both him and his partner Teppo Numminen earned a +4 rating for the series.
#2 - Danius Zubrus. Zubrus had a tenacious series, scoring 5 assists. Every one of his points were good, quality setups. He was a machine along the boards and a force to be reckoned with whenever he was on the ice.
#1 - Who else? Captain Clutch. Chris Drury scored 4 goals and an assist, two of his goals were game winners. He owned the slot the entire series and helped his team through their murky play. He is a playoff player; look for much of the same against the 'other' NY team.
Ghosts:
#3 - Henrik Tallinder/Toni Lydman. I put them on the same slot because I swear, they are one and the same player. When one plays like crap, the other usually does. When one's hot, they're the best pairing in the league. They were NOT HOT this series. Calling Mr. Lydman and Mr. Tallinder, Mr. Lydman and Mr. Tallinder. SABRES NATION would like you to WAKE UP!
#2 - Daniel Briere. I don't care, puck bunnies and teenie boppers, that he scored five points. He made TWO good plays this entire series. This entire season we've been enjoying Briere playing well and controlling the puck. Skating with the puck into the zone...but keeping control. He had multiple giveaways, and three of his points were only due to the fact he was the second to last person to touch the puck. E.G. on Kalinin's goal, everyone on the ice was swatting at the puck in front of DiPietro, and Briere's shot bounced to Kalinin, who scored. Not a point Briere really earned.
#1 - 60 minutes of effort. Too many five minute lapses. Or, in the case of game 5, one twenty minute lapse. We nearly allowed the Islanders to tie the game...after building TWO three goal leads. Unacceptable. A team like the Sabres should be going for the jugular, not being nice and trying to make the other team look better.
What do you think? Post your opinions in a comment! Ask any questions you may have about the series, or any other series in the Quarterfinals.
#1 Buffalo Sabres vs. #6 New York Rangers
#2 New Jersey Devils vs #4 Ottawa Senators
The Sabres overall play in the Islanders series, unfortunately, was poor. Starting right from the draw, the Sabres underachieved through every game from game 2 on. I can excuse Chris Drury's poor faceoff performance this series, because it was against one of the top drawmen in the league, in Mike Sillinger. Besides that, the Sabres did hold a slight edge in faceoffs, led by the less-than-good at draws Daniel Briere and Derek Roy.
The Sabres coasted a lot, we saw that by allowing a team like the Islanders keep games close. Outside of game one, the Sabres never flexed their muscles, built on leads, or made the Islanders sorry they made the playoffs. Game one was all Sabres from taking the body from Ryan Smyth, to not letting the defense up and to keep scoring.
Best players of the series:
#3a - Adam Mair. This fourth line agitator strung together five marvelous performances to score a goal and two assists- and if I could, I'd give him an extra assist for WRECKING Richard Zednik to start the play that ended with his goal.
#3b - Dmitri Kalinin, right. Kalinin, other than one hiccough of a giveaway, played excellent shut down hockey. Both him and his partner Teppo Numminen earned a +4 rating for the series.
#2 - Danius Zubrus. Zubrus had a tenacious series, scoring 5 assists. Every one of his points were good, quality setups. He was a machine along the boards and a force to be reckoned with whenever he was on the ice.
#1 - Who else? Captain Clutch. Chris Drury scored 4 goals and an assist, two of his goals were game winners. He owned the slot the entire series and helped his team through their murky play. He is a playoff player; look for much of the same against the 'other' NY team.
Ghosts:
#3 - Henrik Tallinder/Toni Lydman. I put them on the same slot because I swear, they are one and the same player. When one plays like crap, the other usually does. When one's hot, they're the best pairing in the league. They were NOT HOT this series. Calling Mr. Lydman and Mr. Tallinder, Mr. Lydman and Mr. Tallinder. SABRES NATION would like you to WAKE UP!
#2 - Daniel Briere. I don't care, puck bunnies and teenie boppers, that he scored five points. He made TWO good plays this entire series. This entire season we've been enjoying Briere playing well and controlling the puck. Skating with the puck into the zone...but keeping control. He had multiple giveaways, and three of his points were only due to the fact he was the second to last person to touch the puck. E.G. on Kalinin's goal, everyone on the ice was swatting at the puck in front of DiPietro, and Briere's shot bounced to Kalinin, who scored. Not a point Briere really earned.
#1 - 60 minutes of effort. Too many five minute lapses. Or, in the case of game 5, one twenty minute lapse. We nearly allowed the Islanders to tie the game...after building TWO three goal leads. Unacceptable. A team like the Sabres should be going for the jugular, not being nice and trying to make the other team look better.
What do you think? Post your opinions in a comment! Ask any questions you may have about the series, or any other series in the Quarterfinals.
4.18.2007
Game 4 is Pivitol for Both Teams
As I'm here in my computer chair during the first few minutes of the game, I see some improvement from the players that haven't showed up thus far in the series.
The bad thing about that? They're Islanders. Jason Blake, right, just scored his first playoff goal and it was on the powerplay. The Sabres looked good for the first five or so minutes, but the Islanders weathered the storm and converted on their opportunity.
The game is huge for both teams. The Islanders do NOT want to go back to Buffalo down 3-1 in the series. In losing tonight, the Islanders have basically scheduled their first tee time of the summer.
Thomas Vanek just scored on a slapshot. Pardon the interruption. DiPietro made a terrible play on Vanek's shot.
Buffalo wants to win this series as quickly as possible. More than five games in the first round is not a good omen for any of the previous 17 Stanley Cup champions. Only two teams have needed more than 11 games to get out of the first two rounds and continued their successful playoff quest.
As I've stated, Buffalo needs to step up. Their lackadaisical play may beat the Islanders, but it won't work. I'd like to see them play balls out to set their timing for the next series. They won't need to make any adjustments and will be ready to play.
Chris Drury has just scored off a beautiful play by Danius Zubrus. That's Drury's 4th point in the playoffs (3 g, 1a) and Zubrus' fifth, all assists. Score is now 2-1 Buffalo with 6 minutes left in the game.
I guess instead of typing my words, I should slowly begin to eat them. But I won't until I see this effort for two complete games.
Players that need to step up:
Ales Kotalik: Other than a couple shifts in game 3, he has done nothing. If he plays as physical as he did during game 3 for more than 1/2 his shifts, then he's deserving of a number 1 star.
Max Afinogenov: Hasn't done a gosh darned thing, other than draw two penalties on one play. Hogging the puck way too much and not giving Vanek or Roy anything to work with but backchecking from his giveaways. Stafford should never have left that line.
Derek Roy: Misses Stafford. Tries to hard to be good with Afinogenov and ends up giving the puck away or making bad passes. A player like Stafford opens things up for Roy because the puck is spread around more.
Jason Pominville: The population of Pominville's at zero, with plenty of miscarriages. Has been invisible.
Daniel Briere: Hasn't done a thing. Argue he has two points, and you're an idiot. Neither of the first two assists showed any work or prowess. One was a shot cycle where every Buffalo player hacked at the puck, and Briere happened to be the second to last. The other was a pass to a player who carried the puck for 6-8 seconds and passed for a one timer. He also scored a goal, on a 5 v 3, but has had a ton of giveaways as well as being selfish with the puck.
Mike Sillinger has just scored to tie the game off a play made by Ryan Smyth. The goal came on a powerplay, due to a terrible call on Teppo Numminen. Numminen ran Jason Blake into the boards who embellished badly and drew a penalty.
Players that have been impressive:
Chris Drury: Leads the team in goals and has been doing everything he can to win games. Unfortunately, Drury takes draws against Mike Sillinger, who is much better and is beating Drury nearly every time. Lindy needs to try someone else on those draws.
Danius Zubrus: Hitting everything that moves. Setting up plays with his physical play and grinding out everything he can.
Dmitri Kalinin: Perfect play except for a small hiccough tonight. Clearing the puck well, skating hard, joining the rush, great outlet passes.
My first round playoff predictions:
(7)Minnesota Wild defeat (2)Anaheim Ducks 4-3, ANA lead series 3-1
Minnesota has been playing so well, but Anaheim is just one goal better every, until the Wild stomped them last night. It wouldn't be crazy to think that Minny comes back to win this one, because the games have been so close and the Wild are so streaky.
(3)Vancouver Canucks defeat (6)Dallas Stars 4-3, VAN leads series 3-1
Roberto Luongo made 72 saves in his first playoff game ever, which went into the 4th OT. Luongo has outclassed Dallas himself, because Dallas, though slightly, has outplayed Vancouver for the bulk of the series.
(4)Nashville Predators defeat (5)San Jose Sharks 4-2, SJS leads series 2-1
This is the most violent series this year. Alexander Radulov of the Predators was suspended for a game for elbowing Steve Bernier of the Sharks. Joe Thornton has been great, and J.P. Dumont has been even better, with 4 goals.
(4)Ottawa Senators defeat (5)Pittsburgh Penguins 4-3, OTT leads series 3-1
The might be the most physical and clean series of the first round. The Penguins, after getting smacked around the first game, have made this a very physical series. I expect the Penguins to win the next game, but I don't think the series will make it to seven. The young kids just can't play up to the men in Ottawa yet, even though Colby Armstrong put the hit of the first round so far on Patrick Eaves.
Chris Drury has scored less than a minute into the third period on a powerplay. This is the second two game goal just this series for Captain Clutch.
(1)Buffalo Sabres defeat (8)New York Islanders 4-1, BUF leads series 2-1
I still think Sabres will win this series in five games.
(8)Calgary Flames defeat (1)Detroit Red Wings 4-3, DET leads series 3-1
Calgary got spanked, badly, in the Joe Louis Arena in Detroit. Miikka Kiprusoff single handedly made the scores at least reasonable. The third game however, was a thriller won on a Jarome Iginla goal in which he made Niklas Lidstrom look silly. I expect Calgary to win at home, tomorrow, but that could be the end of their road. If they get into a rhythm, though, they could still make a run at it.
(6)New York Rangers defeat (3)Atlanta Thrashers 4-2, NYR leads series 3-0
The Rangers have totally outclassed the Thrashers every game, including a 7-0 win last night. They are currently playing in Atlanta, and the score is 2-2 at the end of the second. I am pulling for Atlanta to win tonight to extend the series a little. Mostly to make my predictions more correct :). In all realism, I expect the series to end in NY in the 5th game, if not tonight.
(7)Tampa Bay Lightning defeat (2)New Jersey Devils 4-3, TBL leads series 2-1
Tampa has done what I thought they'd do. Control the puck, beat the Devils with speed, and tick off Marty Brodeur. It's payed off, yet again. They are playing currently, and the score is 3-3 at the end of the second. I still think the Lightning will win in 6.
The bad thing about that? They're Islanders. Jason Blake, right, just scored his first playoff goal and it was on the powerplay. The Sabres looked good for the first five or so minutes, but the Islanders weathered the storm and converted on their opportunity.
The game is huge for both teams. The Islanders do NOT want to go back to Buffalo down 3-1 in the series. In losing tonight, the Islanders have basically scheduled their first tee time of the summer.
Thomas Vanek just scored on a slapshot. Pardon the interruption. DiPietro made a terrible play on Vanek's shot.
Buffalo wants to win this series as quickly as possible. More than five games in the first round is not a good omen for any of the previous 17 Stanley Cup champions. Only two teams have needed more than 11 games to get out of the first two rounds and continued their successful playoff quest.
As I've stated, Buffalo needs to step up. Their lackadaisical play may beat the Islanders, but it won't work. I'd like to see them play balls out to set their timing for the next series. They won't need to make any adjustments and will be ready to play.
Chris Drury has just scored off a beautiful play by Danius Zubrus. That's Drury's 4th point in the playoffs (3 g, 1a) and Zubrus' fifth, all assists. Score is now 2-1 Buffalo with 6 minutes left in the game.
I guess instead of typing my words, I should slowly begin to eat them. But I won't until I see this effort for two complete games.
Players that need to step up:
Ales Kotalik: Other than a couple shifts in game 3, he has done nothing. If he plays as physical as he did during game 3 for more than 1/2 his shifts, then he's deserving of a number 1 star.
Max Afinogenov: Hasn't done a gosh darned thing, other than draw two penalties on one play. Hogging the puck way too much and not giving Vanek or Roy anything to work with but backchecking from his giveaways. Stafford should never have left that line.
Derek Roy: Misses Stafford. Tries to hard to be good with Afinogenov and ends up giving the puck away or making bad passes. A player like Stafford opens things up for Roy because the puck is spread around more.
Jason Pominville: The population of Pominville's at zero, with plenty of miscarriages. Has been invisible.
Daniel Briere: Hasn't done a thing. Argue he has two points, and you're an idiot. Neither of the first two assists showed any work or prowess. One was a shot cycle where every Buffalo player hacked at the puck, and Briere happened to be the second to last. The other was a pass to a player who carried the puck for 6-8 seconds and passed for a one timer. He also scored a goal, on a 5 v 3, but has had a ton of giveaways as well as being selfish with the puck.
Mike Sillinger has just scored to tie the game off a play made by Ryan Smyth. The goal came on a powerplay, due to a terrible call on Teppo Numminen. Numminen ran Jason Blake into the boards who embellished badly and drew a penalty.
Players that have been impressive:
Chris Drury: Leads the team in goals and has been doing everything he can to win games. Unfortunately, Drury takes draws against Mike Sillinger, who is much better and is beating Drury nearly every time. Lindy needs to try someone else on those draws.
Danius Zubrus: Hitting everything that moves. Setting up plays with his physical play and grinding out everything he can.
Dmitri Kalinin: Perfect play except for a small hiccough tonight. Clearing the puck well, skating hard, joining the rush, great outlet passes.
My first round playoff predictions:
(7)Minnesota Wild defeat (2)Anaheim Ducks 4-3, ANA lead series 3-1
Minnesota has been playing so well, but Anaheim is just one goal better every, until the Wild stomped them last night. It wouldn't be crazy to think that Minny comes back to win this one, because the games have been so close and the Wild are so streaky.
(3)Vancouver Canucks defeat (6)Dallas Stars 4-3, VAN leads series 3-1
Roberto Luongo made 72 saves in his first playoff game ever, which went into the 4th OT. Luongo has outclassed Dallas himself, because Dallas, though slightly, has outplayed Vancouver for the bulk of the series.
(4)Nashville Predators defeat (5)San Jose Sharks 4-2, SJS leads series 2-1
This is the most violent series this year. Alexander Radulov of the Predators was suspended for a game for elbowing Steve Bernier of the Sharks. Joe Thornton has been great, and J.P. Dumont has been even better, with 4 goals.
(4)Ottawa Senators defeat (5)Pittsburgh Penguins 4-3, OTT leads series 3-1
The might be the most physical and clean series of the first round. The Penguins, after getting smacked around the first game, have made this a very physical series. I expect the Penguins to win the next game, but I don't think the series will make it to seven. The young kids just can't play up to the men in Ottawa yet, even though Colby Armstrong put the hit of the first round so far on Patrick Eaves.
Chris Drury has scored less than a minute into the third period on a powerplay. This is the second two game goal just this series for Captain Clutch.
(1)Buffalo Sabres defeat (8)New York Islanders 4-1, BUF leads series 2-1
I still think Sabres will win this series in five games.
(8)Calgary Flames defeat (1)Detroit Red Wings 4-3, DET leads series 3-1
Calgary got spanked, badly, in the Joe Louis Arena in Detroit. Miikka Kiprusoff single handedly made the scores at least reasonable. The third game however, was a thriller won on a Jarome Iginla goal in which he made Niklas Lidstrom look silly. I expect Calgary to win at home, tomorrow, but that could be the end of their road. If they get into a rhythm, though, they could still make a run at it.
(6)New York Rangers defeat (3)Atlanta Thrashers 4-2, NYR leads series 3-0
The Rangers have totally outclassed the Thrashers every game, including a 7-0 win last night. They are currently playing in Atlanta, and the score is 2-2 at the end of the second. I am pulling for Atlanta to win tonight to extend the series a little. Mostly to make my predictions more correct :). In all realism, I expect the series to end in NY in the 5th game, if not tonight.
(7)Tampa Bay Lightning defeat (2)New Jersey Devils 4-3, TBL leads series 2-1
Tampa has done what I thought they'd do. Control the puck, beat the Devils with speed, and tick off Marty Brodeur. It's payed off, yet again. They are playing currently, and the score is 3-3 at the end of the second. I still think the Lightning will win in 6.
4.15.2007
DiPietro Stifles Sabres Forwards For Game 2
Islanders goalie Rick DiPietro played last night for the first time in nearly three weeks. DiPietro, right, didn't miss a darned beat. He made 32 saves, and I'd say stole the game from Buffalo. Buffalo did not play well for most of the game, but still, DiPietro made some excellent saves to keep the Islanders in it.Buffalo did not attack the Islanders as they did in game 1. I did not see players throwing their body in the boards at players. I also did not see players taking the hit along the boards to make the play. Both of these things are incredibly important in playoff hockey. If Buffalo expects to win game three at the Nassau Coliseum, they must carry the puck better and be willing to use their bodies.
Physicality in hockey is a huge part of the game and is much larger part in playoff hockey. The Sabres need to both skate hard for 60 minutes and play physical hockey. I know that the Sabres aren't a physical team like the Maple Leafs, but they really, really need to take hits and give them out a few times. It's not like we lack size; just overall size. Kotalik, Mair, Hecht, Zubrus, and even Vanek are big enough to send a few checks, along with every single one of the Sabres defensemen.
The Islanders took a lot of liberties in Game 2. If I were Lindy Ruff, I'd change the lines to:
Hecht/Briere/Pominville
Zubrus/Drury/Kotalik-(MAYBE Afinogenov)
Vanek/Roy/Stafford
Mair/Kotalik(or Connolly)/Kaleta
Afinogenov has been off his game. Connolly hasn't been spectacular, and after so long out, he's going to need a rest soon. I think splitting Stafford from Roy and Vanek was silly. He's a rookie, not proven to produce, and was producing well with Roy and Vanek. Afinogenov will do the same thing with any line he's on- he's just Max. I think Connolly feeding him would be excellent and Mair would be there to protect, if necessary. Kaleta skates more than fast enough to keep up with Connolly and Afinogenov if we would rather sit Mair in his place, making the lines look more like this:
Hecht/Briere/Pominville
Vanek/Roy/Stafford
Zubrus/Drury/Kotalik
Afinogenov/Connolly/Kaleta
Lastly, Daniel Briere needs to step us his game. He does have 2 assists, but both have really had nothing to do with the play. He's disappeared in the last 5 games and really needs to pick it up a notch. If not to win the Cup, then he needs to do it to increase his UFA value this summer.
4.12.2007
Sabres Run Amok On Islanders
The Buffalo Sabres start the 'real' season tonight against the New York Islanders. The Sabres secured a playoff spot well over 2 weeks ago and the number one seed last week. The Islanders, on the other hand, won in dramatic fashion against the New Jersey Devils on the last day of the regular season for their playoff birth. Third string goalie Wade 'Dubbie" Dubliewicz has filled in for Rick Dipietro magnificently. Dipietro has been out of nine of the final thirteen games due to a consussion and Post- Concussion Syndrome, but is rumored to be the starter after game one.
The Islanders have a couple players that will cause a hassle for the Sabers, and the main player, without any doubt, is Ryan Smyth, right. Smyth led the 8th seed Oilers to the Stanley Cup Finals last year. Smyth will be in front of Ryan Miller all series and obstructing Miller's vision. The key to this is keeping him out of that area. Spacek, who is very familiar with Smyth, will be responsible for him when they're on the ice.
The Islanders love to hit. Their top three have nearly double the hits that the top three Sabres do. That, is due in large part to Coach Ted Nolan, who won the Jack Adams award for best coach nearly a decade ago with the Sabres. Nolan is big on grinding players and good, finished checks.
Buffalo solves this with good, quick, fluid, tape-to-tape passes. It will keep the bigger, slower Islanders on their toes, and will wear them down. Buffalo can not afford to stop skating hard against this team- they will come back. They nearly did a couple Fridays back from 5-1 to 6-4.
Dubliewicz lacks the side to side mobility he needs to keep up with the Sabres' excellent down low passing. He doesn't give a ton of rebounds, so look for the Sabres to really try to capitalize on first shot chances. He also hasn't been tested after too many shots, so who knows how he'll perform against an offense this potent.
Buffalo's biggest weakness is the same one they've had all season. Themselves. The Sabres cannot get complacent in the playoffs, things do NOT work out that well. Every team is fighting like there is no tomorrow- because there isn't. They need to skate hard for 60, if not more, minutes. Their new style of defense must continue, meaning the Sabres must backcheck as hard as they forecheck to help out Ryan Miller.
The X-factors of this game are two Buffalo players. Thomas Vanek, right, and . Vanek disappeared and was benched during the playoffs last year. Some argue his body burnt out; the college season is about half of the NHL's season. In his sophomore season, Vanek lost about 20 lbs and has played his best hockey in the past six weeks. Let's hope he hasn't peaked yet. He needs to remain a force in front of the net.
Not so obviously, the other X-factor for Buffalo is Brian Campbell. The All-Star defenseman has regained his prior form in the most recent games, but fell off considerably for a month or more. Campbell needs to play BIG.
The series unknown is Drew Stafford. It looks like he will be taken off the Roy/Vanek line for Maxim Afinogenov, opposite of what Ruff recently said. Stafford is not proven, and it will be interesting to see if he can pan out on a line without Roy and Vanek.
As well all remember from the heartbreak last year, things don't always go smooth in the playoffs. We're running down a dream to the Stanley Cup, and it's a battle- nearly 300 opponents (20 players per roster times 16 teams =320 players) will be in Buffalo's way. The question is, who's going to lay the boom this year to set the tone?
Overtime is crucial for the Sabres. In our history, we've won most of them, and most of the big ones, but sometimes we lose. It all started last year- the new NHL, the playoff run. The run highlighted by one phrase that brought us all together-- Do you believe? I sure do. I'm not going to forget 05-06's heart breaker, either. Nor the 98-99 improbable Cup run.
But this isn't either of these season. This is 2006-07, and it's time for the Sabres to make their battle.
The Islanders have a couple players that will cause a hassle for the Sabers, and the main player, without any doubt, is Ryan Smyth, right. Smyth led the 8th seed Oilers to the Stanley Cup Finals last year. Smyth will be in front of Ryan Miller all series and obstructing Miller's vision. The key to this is keeping him out of that area. Spacek, who is very familiar with Smyth, will be responsible for him when they're on the ice.
The Islanders love to hit. Their top three have nearly double the hits that the top three Sabres do. That, is due in large part to Coach Ted Nolan, who won the Jack Adams award for best coach nearly a decade ago with the Sabres. Nolan is big on grinding players and good, finished checks.
Buffalo solves this with good, quick, fluid, tape-to-tape passes. It will keep the bigger, slower Islanders on their toes, and will wear them down. Buffalo can not afford to stop skating hard against this team- they will come back. They nearly did a couple Fridays back from 5-1 to 6-4.
Dubliewicz lacks the side to side mobility he needs to keep up with the Sabres' excellent down low passing. He doesn't give a ton of rebounds, so look for the Sabres to really try to capitalize on first shot chances. He also hasn't been tested after too many shots, so who knows how he'll perform against an offense this potent.
Buffalo's biggest weakness is the same one they've had all season. Themselves. The Sabres cannot get complacent in the playoffs, things do NOT work out that well. Every team is fighting like there is no tomorrow- because there isn't. They need to skate hard for 60, if not more, minutes. Their new style of defense must continue, meaning the Sabres must backcheck as hard as they forecheck to help out Ryan Miller.
The X-factors of this game are two Buffalo players. Thomas Vanek, right, and . Vanek disappeared and was benched during the playoffs last year. Some argue his body burnt out; the college season is about half of the NHL's season. In his sophomore season, Vanek lost about 20 lbs and has played his best hockey in the past six weeks. Let's hope he hasn't peaked yet. He needs to remain a force in front of the net.
Not so obviously, the other X-factor for Buffalo is Brian Campbell. The All-Star defenseman has regained his prior form in the most recent games, but fell off considerably for a month or more. Campbell needs to play BIG.
The series unknown is Drew Stafford. It looks like he will be taken off the Roy/Vanek line for Maxim Afinogenov, opposite of what Ruff recently said. Stafford is not proven, and it will be interesting to see if he can pan out on a line without Roy and Vanek.
As well all remember from the heartbreak last year, things don't always go smooth in the playoffs. We're running down a dream to the Stanley Cup, and it's a battle- nearly 300 opponents (20 players per roster times 16 teams =320 players) will be in Buffalo's way. The question is, who's going to lay the boom this year to set the tone?
Overtime is crucial for the Sabres. In our history, we've won most of them, and most of the big ones, but sometimes we lose. It all started last year- the new NHL, the playoff run. The run highlighted by one phrase that brought us all together-- Do you believe? I sure do. I'm not going to forget 05-06's heart breaker, either. Nor the 98-99 improbable Cup run.
But this isn't either of these season. This is 2006-07, and it's time for the Sabres to make their battle.
4.11.2007
And the Thursday Night Predictions Are:
A side note- the Sabres prediction will be up, in detail, tomorrow. But to keep you in the know for my predictions, I feel the Sabres can beat the slow defense and older, lazier skaters of the Islanders without a ton of trouble. Sabres in 5.
The sole Western matchup of the night is the (1) Detroit Red Wings and the (8) Calgary Flames. The Wings are a perennial threat to get the Cup, but have been ousted in the first round the last two years. Ironically, the team that beat them advanced to the finals- and lost. The West is a much tougher division to pick in the first round, becasue the top 7 seeds were all over 100 points and only six points separate the 2 seed from the 7 seed. Though 17 points separate Detroit and Calgary, reigning Vezina winner Miikka Kiprusoff has played like the champ he is recently. Calgary played excellent hockey over the last month, led by Kippy's impeccable play. Detroit has the best goalie in hockey history (Dominik Hasek) but he has the world's weakest groin. Henrik Zetterberg, Detroit's premier player,returns this week after missing a month of hockey. Detroit is also suffering through another injury to Todd Bertuzzi, who has a concussion.
It is my belief that the Flames, especially if they can steal one of the first two games at Joe Louis Arena in Michigan, will fight Detroit to seven games. And I think the Flames win in that seventh game.
(3) Atlanta Thrashers and the (6) New York Rangers. The Rangers have played incredible hockey down the stretch led by Brendan Shanahan and Jaromir Jagr. Henrik Lundqvist, the Ranger keeper, has arguable been the best tender in the last six weeks. Marcel Hossa has started scoring and Peter Prucha is a nice surprise for the Rangers. Marian Hossa and Ilya Kovalchuck look to lead the young Thrashers through the playoffs, but ended the season JUST edging out the Tampa Bay Lightning for the division crown. It's unfortunate that Kari Lehtonen will not be able to stop the Ranger's attack.
The Thrashers, who have some players who tend to disappear in big games, and have very little overall playoff experience, will be eliminated by the Rangers in 6 games.
That brings me to the last game of this post, the (2) New Jersey Devils and the (7) Tampa Bay Lightning. Tampa has beaten New Jersey 3 out of four times this year. Vincent Lecavalier and Martin St Louis have caused nothing but migraines for Martin Brodeur. I expect nothing less in this series. Whereas the Devils run a great trap defense, they only have so many guys that can keep up with the Lightning. The only question mark for the Lightning is their shaky goaltending. I think Mark Denis and Johan Holmqvist tighten up in this series and the Lightning run a huge upset in seven games.
There you are, SABRES NATION, all my picks for the first round. A much better Sabres/Islanders post will be up tomorrow. Check back, comment if you will! Thanks, Tom, for commenting! Even though I don't know you! Give feedback! What would you like to read about?
In conclusion:
Minnesota Wild defeat Anaheim Ducks 4-3, ANA lead series 1-0
Vancouver Canucks defeat Dallas Stars 4-3, VAN leads series 1-0
Nashville Predators defeat San Jose Sharks 4-2, SJS leads series 1-0
Ottawa Senators defeat Pittsburgh Penguins 4-3, OTT leads series 1-0
Buffalo Sabres defeat New York Islanders 4-1
Calgary Flames defeat Detroit Red Wings 4-3
New York Rangers defeat Atlanta Thrashers 4-2
Tampa Bay Lightning defeat New Jersey Devils 4-3
The sole Western matchup of the night is the (1) Detroit Red Wings and the (8) Calgary Flames. The Wings are a perennial threat to get the Cup, but have been ousted in the first round the last two years. Ironically, the team that beat them advanced to the finals- and lost. The West is a much tougher division to pick in the first round, becasue the top 7 seeds were all over 100 points and only six points separate the 2 seed from the 7 seed. Though 17 points separate Detroit and Calgary, reigning Vezina winner Miikka Kiprusoff has played like the champ he is recently. Calgary played excellent hockey over the last month, led by Kippy's impeccable play. Detroit has the best goalie in hockey history (Dominik Hasek) but he has the world's weakest groin. Henrik Zetterberg, Detroit's premier player,returns this week after missing a month of hockey. Detroit is also suffering through another injury to Todd Bertuzzi, who has a concussion.
It is my belief that the Flames, especially if they can steal one of the first two games at Joe Louis Arena in Michigan, will fight Detroit to seven games. And I think the Flames win in that seventh game.
(3) Atlanta Thrashers and the (6) New York Rangers. The Rangers have played incredible hockey down the stretch led by Brendan Shanahan and Jaromir Jagr. Henrik Lundqvist, the Ranger keeper, has arguable been the best tender in the last six weeks. Marcel Hossa has started scoring and Peter Prucha is a nice surprise for the Rangers. Marian Hossa and Ilya Kovalchuck look to lead the young Thrashers through the playoffs, but ended the season JUST edging out the Tampa Bay Lightning for the division crown. It's unfortunate that Kari Lehtonen will not be able to stop the Ranger's attack.
The Thrashers, who have some players who tend to disappear in big games, and have very little overall playoff experience, will be eliminated by the Rangers in 6 games.
That brings me to the last game of this post, the (2) New Jersey Devils and the (7) Tampa Bay Lightning. Tampa has beaten New Jersey 3 out of four times this year. Vincent Lecavalier and Martin St Louis have caused nothing but migraines for Martin Brodeur. I expect nothing less in this series. Whereas the Devils run a great trap defense, they only have so many guys that can keep up with the Lightning. The only question mark for the Lightning is their shaky goaltending. I think Mark Denis and Johan Holmqvist tighten up in this series and the Lightning run a huge upset in seven games.
There you are, SABRES NATION, all my picks for the first round. A much better Sabres/Islanders post will be up tomorrow. Check back, comment if you will! Thanks, Tom, for commenting! Even though I don't know you! Give feedback! What would you like to read about?
In conclusion:
Minnesota Wild defeat Anaheim Ducks 4-3, ANA lead series 1-0
Vancouver Canucks defeat Dallas Stars 4-3, VAN leads series 1-0
Nashville Predators defeat San Jose Sharks 4-2, SJS leads series 1-0
Ottawa Senators defeat Pittsburgh Penguins 4-3, OTT leads series 1-0
Buffalo Sabres defeat New York Islanders 4-1
Calgary Flames defeat Detroit Red Wings 4-3
New York Rangers defeat Atlanta Thrashers 4-2
Tampa Bay Lightning defeat New Jersey Devils 4-3
4.10.2007
And Now, the President's Trophy Means Nothing
Tomorrow night brings what we've been waiting for since October 4th, 2006 where the Buffalo Sabres defeated the Carolina Hurricanes on national TV. That win was the same night Carolina rose their Stanley Cup Champions banner at the RBC Center. The win that night helped us, as SABRES NATION, to relax after the onslaught of injuries in that Championship series last Spring.
That's all gone now. Carolina is out, and we're the number one seed. I will talk about tomorrow's four series today, and Thursday's four games (including the Sabres) tomorrow. Deal? OK. Here we GO!
In what is probably the game of the night, the (5) Pittsburgh Penguins head north to take on the (4) Ottawa Senators. Both teams have an excellent talent base but, both have their drawbacks. Pittsburgh is young and only two of their players have real playoff experience (41 year old Gary Roberts, 40 year old Mark Recchi, and Georges Laraque[the tough guy]). The two latter players have the experience from the Finals last year, Recchi with Carolina, Laraque with the Oilers. Look for an extraordinary amount of speed in these games. The Penguins' drawback is that none of their kids (Malkin, Staal, Crosby, Armstrong, Whitney, Fleury) know how to play in the playoffs. It truly is a whole different game. The Senators' drawback is that their playoff experience is horrid. They haven't made it past the second round in years and were the top seed at least twice in the last five years. Chris Neil will most likely square up with Georges Laraque, and I really feel Neil will get pounded. Here's hoping, right SABRES NATION?!
I feel that bad experience outweighs no experience, in this situation. I don't think the Penguins will be able to go at the pace they need to for seven games in just two weeks. I give the edge to Ottawa, in seven games.
In another great series matchup, the Nashville Predators, led by two time Cup champ Peter Forsberg and an excellent goaltending duo in Tomas Vokoun and Chris Mason take on the San Jose Sharks, Yevgeni Nabokov/Vinny Toskala, and Joe Thornton. San Jose is led by a plethora of rookies, some on the blue line. Their offensive rookies won't be the problem; it's their defense without Craig Rivet in that should be worrisome to the Sharks. Scoring, in general, won't be a problem for the Sharks, I expect. J.P. Dumont, SABRES NATION will remember, departed us this summer and has enjoyed his best season of his career this year. Hopefully we haven't forgot how dangerous he was during our playoff run (7+7=14, 1GWG in OT) but I suspect San Jose does.
Given the youth on the Sharks, I cannot help but think that with similar goaltending and more clutch players in Barry Trotz's Predators, that the Preds win this series in six games.
The next matchup is the first of the Western Conference round. (3) Vancouver Canucks led by a couple twins and a brick wall take on the (6) Dallas Stars, led by the face of the franchise, Mike Modano. Roberto Luongo proved to be the steal of the century from the Panthers. The man is, in my not so humble opinion, the best goalie this year. Vancouver has a slightly more offensive system led by the Sedin twins (Dan and Henrik). Taylor Pyatt (we all remember him, right?) also has over twenty goals this year, and figures to be a force in the playoffs. Modano, for the Stars, is an excellent player, surrounded by other talent like Jussi Jokinen and Brenden Morrow. Marty Turco, the Stars' keeper, has consistently been a very good goalie in the regular season the past few years, but has played terribly in the playoffs.
Do I think he tightens it up this year? A little. But I don't think he can out dual Luongo. That said, I pick the Canucks in seven.
The last game of the night is another Western Conference matchup featuring the (2) Anaheim Ducks and the (7) Minnesota Wild. Brian Rolston, the Alternate Captain of the Wild, and Jacques Lemaire, the coach, both boast Stanley Cups on their resume. The same one, as a matter of fact, in 1995 with the New Jersey Devils. Pavol Demitra and Marian Gaborik will cause heck for the Ducks and J.S. Giguere, the Conn Smyth winner of 2003. Teemu Selanne will do everything he can with his teammates Andy McDonald, Scott Niedermeyer, and Chris Pronger. This team is L-O-A-D-E-D with playoff experience. Their only drawback is Minnesota's speed coupled with a stingy trap-style defense.
Because I think Rolston's a winner, and Lemaire is a better coach, I think the Wild will stifle the league's most balanced team. The Wild in seven, according to Pat.
There you have it, SABRES NATION. The Wild, the Canucks, the Predators, and the Senators. A preview of all the series beginning tomorrow. New fans, young kids, old fans all alike- this may be a playoffs to remember. So many possibilities with so many even teams in the salary cap era! Welcome to the Show, ladies and gentlemen. Buckle up, SABRES NATION, here is what we've been waiting for!
That's all gone now. Carolina is out, and we're the number one seed. I will talk about tomorrow's four series today, and Thursday's four games (including the Sabres) tomorrow. Deal? OK. Here we GO!
In what is probably the game of the night, the (5) Pittsburgh Penguins head north to take on the (4) Ottawa Senators. Both teams have an excellent talent base but, both have their drawbacks. Pittsburgh is young and only two of their players have real playoff experience (41 year old Gary Roberts, 40 year old Mark Recchi, and Georges Laraque[the tough guy]). The two latter players have the experience from the Finals last year, Recchi with Carolina, Laraque with the Oilers. Look for an extraordinary amount of speed in these games. The Penguins' drawback is that none of their kids (Malkin, Staal, Crosby, Armstrong, Whitney, Fleury) know how to play in the playoffs. It truly is a whole different game. The Senators' drawback is that their playoff experience is horrid. They haven't made it past the second round in years and were the top seed at least twice in the last five years. Chris Neil will most likely square up with Georges Laraque, and I really feel Neil will get pounded. Here's hoping, right SABRES NATION?!
I feel that bad experience outweighs no experience, in this situation. I don't think the Penguins will be able to go at the pace they need to for seven games in just two weeks. I give the edge to Ottawa, in seven games.
In another great series matchup, the Nashville Predators, led by two time Cup champ Peter Forsberg and an excellent goaltending duo in Tomas Vokoun and Chris Mason take on the San Jose Sharks, Yevgeni Nabokov/Vinny Toskala, and Joe Thornton. San Jose is led by a plethora of rookies, some on the blue line. Their offensive rookies won't be the problem; it's their defense without Craig Rivet in that should be worrisome to the Sharks. Scoring, in general, won't be a problem for the Sharks, I expect. J.P. Dumont, SABRES NATION will remember, departed us this summer and has enjoyed his best season of his career this year. Hopefully we haven't forgot how dangerous he was during our playoff run (7+7=14, 1GWG in OT) but I suspect San Jose does.
Given the youth on the Sharks, I cannot help but think that with similar goaltending and more clutch players in Barry Trotz's Predators, that the Preds win this series in six games.
The next matchup is the first of the Western Conference round. (3) Vancouver Canucks led by a couple twins and a brick wall take on the (6) Dallas Stars, led by the face of the franchise, Mike Modano. Roberto Luongo proved to be the steal of the century from the Panthers. The man is, in my not so humble opinion, the best goalie this year. Vancouver has a slightly more offensive system led by the Sedin twins (Dan and Henrik). Taylor Pyatt (we all remember him, right?) also has over twenty goals this year, and figures to be a force in the playoffs. Modano, for the Stars, is an excellent player, surrounded by other talent like Jussi Jokinen and Brenden Morrow. Marty Turco, the Stars' keeper, has consistently been a very good goalie in the regular season the past few years, but has played terribly in the playoffs.
Do I think he tightens it up this year? A little. But I don't think he can out dual Luongo. That said, I pick the Canucks in seven.
The last game of the night is another Western Conference matchup featuring the (2) Anaheim Ducks and the (7) Minnesota Wild. Brian Rolston, the Alternate Captain of the Wild, and Jacques Lemaire, the coach, both boast Stanley Cups on their resume. The same one, as a matter of fact, in 1995 with the New Jersey Devils. Pavol Demitra and Marian Gaborik will cause heck for the Ducks and J.S. Giguere, the Conn Smyth winner of 2003. Teemu Selanne will do everything he can with his teammates Andy McDonald, Scott Niedermeyer, and Chris Pronger. This team is L-O-A-D-E-D with playoff experience. Their only drawback is Minnesota's speed coupled with a stingy trap-style defense.
Because I think Rolston's a winner, and Lemaire is a better coach, I think the Wild will stifle the league's most balanced team. The Wild in seven, according to Pat.
There you have it, SABRES NATION. The Wild, the Canucks, the Predators, and the Senators. A preview of all the series beginning tomorrow. New fans, young kids, old fans all alike- this may be a playoffs to remember. So many possibilities with so many even teams in the salary cap era! Welcome to the Show, ladies and gentlemen. Buckle up, SABRES NATION, here is what we've been waiting for!
4.08.2007
We Have ice Icing, Now Begins the Hunt for the Cake
Well, there you have it, SABRES NATION. With the 2-0 blanking of the Capitals yesterday, Buffalo became the NHL regular season champions. That thing on the right, the President's Trophy, is now in the hands of the Buffalo Sabres for the first time ever.
Derek Roy and Tim Connolly scored yesterday, Ryan Miller had his fourth straight great performance and the Sabres completed their second shutout of the season.
Roy scored his 20th goal of the year. That makes SEVEN Sabres with 20 or more goals. Roy, Daniel Briere, Maxim Afinogenov, Chris Drury, Thomas Vanek, Jason Pominville, and Dainius Zubrus all have reached that plateau and all have 50 or more points. Not to mention, had they played closer to full seasons, both Ales Kotalik and Drew Stafford would have most likely had at least 20 goals and maybe 50 points.
Jochen Hecht sits at 19 goals and narrowly missed an open net yesterday afternoon in the waning seconds of the game. His linemates, Briere and Pominville, tried to feed him all game, but the shots he got off were from bad angles. Let's hope for his 20th today.
The Sabres have played excellent defense in the last few games, starting with the dominating win at Pittsburgh 4-1. That is in large part due to the new defensive scheme the Sabres have employed, and partially due to the improved play of Ryan Miller.
The Sabres have began using a trap-style scheme. If you recall my earlier posts about the Neutral Zone Trap, you'll remember that it isn't conducive to a high powered offense. Lindy Ruff has found a way for it to work without sacrificing our greatest asset. Instead of waiting for a mistake to capitalize on the opposition, we run our offense like we always have. The only change is that our defensemen don't rush everytime- only when we're down, have a quality scoring chance, or late in the game, sometimes.
On the backcheck, our forwards skate harder to get back but turn and face the opposition around center ice. This allows us to save our energy by backskating and forcing opponents to turn the puck over. In turn this helps goalie Ryan Miller because there will be many less odd man rushes and quality shots against.
Today's matchup is highlighted by one main thing. It's Marty vs. the Sabres. It's going to be weird being competitive against the former 'future of the Sabres', but that's how it goes. Also, if the Sabres win in regulation, they will have as many wins as the Flyers have points.
Go get 'em, Buffalo!
4.05.2007
No-Panic Vanek and The Sabres Break the Bruins
Thomas Vanek had a monstrous game tonight. Not only did he become a 40/40 man- which hasn't been done in a long time by a player on the Sabres' roster, but he scored two clutch goals. The first was a beautiful wraparound on a rebound that only he can execute so well, and the second was a partial breakaway that made the Boston goaltender Hannu Toivonen look more lost than an Evangelist in the ghetto.
Vanek had an excellent chance to finish off the game with a hat trick, but instead of doing it himself, he completed a tic-tac-toe pass play and allowed Derek Roy, right, to shovel the pass into an open net on the powerplay late in the game.
Maxim Afinogenov made his first appearance since February 15th tonight. The speedster broke a bone in his wrist in the win against the Edmonton Oilers. He scored a point, as well, assisting on Roy's goal. He played excellent though, splitting time with different lines. The majority of his time was on the fourth line with Adam Mair and Daniel Paille.
Later in the game, coach Lindy Ruff mixed him with his old linemates Roy and Vanek, and also Ales Kotalik centered with Dainius Zubrus. Afinogenov played well each place, and this is a great tool for the playoff lines for Ruff.
Buffalo gave up an early 2-0 nothing lead, but scored four unanswered goals to win. This is the tenth of Buffalo's 52 wins that have come after trailing by at least two goals. Only two teams have won more games in this fashion in the last 30 years.
Buffalo's 52 wins ties the record for most wins in a season set last year. They have also set their points record with 111 as of tonight. Buffalo has sold out 40 straight games out of 41 this year. Three or four years ago, this team may have sold out maybe three quarters of the seats ever weekend game. Ryan Miller played excellent in his second straight game, regaining the form that we all know he is capable of.
Magic Numbers:
There is only one team in contention with the Sabres for the President's Cup after the win tonight. The Detroit Red Wings, excluding the current game.
With any combination of the Sabres gaining points or Detroit squandering points that equals three, the Sabres will win the President's trophy. Detroit is currently losing 2-1 against the Chicago Blackhawks with ten minutes left in the third period.
Why is Buffalo's defense finally playing well? Tomorrow's post will explain.
Vanek had an excellent chance to finish off the game with a hat trick, but instead of doing it himself, he completed a tic-tac-toe pass play and allowed Derek Roy, right, to shovel the pass into an open net on the powerplay late in the game.
Maxim Afinogenov made his first appearance since February 15th tonight. The speedster broke a bone in his wrist in the win against the Edmonton Oilers. He scored a point, as well, assisting on Roy's goal. He played excellent though, splitting time with different lines. The majority of his time was on the fourth line with Adam Mair and Daniel Paille.
Later in the game, coach Lindy Ruff mixed him with his old linemates Roy and Vanek, and also Ales Kotalik centered with Dainius Zubrus. Afinogenov played well each place, and this is a great tool for the playoff lines for Ruff.
Buffalo gave up an early 2-0 nothing lead, but scored four unanswered goals to win. This is the tenth of Buffalo's 52 wins that have come after trailing by at least two goals. Only two teams have won more games in this fashion in the last 30 years.
Buffalo's 52 wins ties the record for most wins in a season set last year. They have also set their points record with 111 as of tonight. Buffalo has sold out 40 straight games out of 41 this year. Three or four years ago, this team may have sold out maybe three quarters of the seats ever weekend game. Ryan Miller played excellent in his second straight game, regaining the form that we all know he is capable of.
Magic Numbers:
There is only one team in contention with the Sabres for the President's Cup after the win tonight. The Detroit Red Wings, excluding the current game.
With any combination of the Sabres gaining points or Detroit squandering points that equals three, the Sabres will win the President's trophy. Detroit is currently losing 2-1 against the Chicago Blackhawks with ten minutes left in the third period.
Why is Buffalo's defense finally playing well? Tomorrow's post will explain.
4.04.2007
Here We Go Down The Home Stretch
Well the latest Buffalo victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins sealed the deal for the Buffalo Sabres.SABRES NATION, we not only became the Northeast division champions, we also clinched the number one seed in the Eastern Conference.
If that wasn't enough accolades for one game, Thomas 'No-Panic' Vanek, right, scored his 40th goal of the year. He is the first Sabre to accomplish the feat since the lazy Miroslav Satan in 1998-99.
In order for the Sabres to win the President's trophy, Buffalo will most likely have to win all three of their remaining games. Detroit, who currently leads the race for the Trophy, has a one point lead, but they have played one more game.
Detroit does have it easy, though, and plays the lowly Chicago Blackhawks twice to close out the season. The Blackhawks may take one, though, 'tender Nikolai Khabibulin will be looking for a shutout and the Hawks will want to play the role of spoiler this year. Not only can they keep the Wings from winning the President's trophy, they will keep themselves from being swept by them.
Buffalo's performance in Pittsburgh was excellent last night, winning 4-1. Their offense capitalized and controlled the puck for a very solid chunk of time during the game, and the team only had two turnovers, cutting down on odd-man rushes and keeping Ryan Miller from being overworked.
The defense played especially well, getting back and running a trap-esque defense in order to keep the shooting lanes away from Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Mark Recchi, and Colby Armstrong. The team that played last night is the Buffalo team we hope to carry into the playoffs, April 11th.
What to watch for:
Chris Drury sits at 37 goals with 3 games left. Can he be the second Sabre to record 40 this year?
Daniel Briere sits at 95 points with 3 games left. Can he be the first Sabre to score 100 points since Alexander Mogilny in 1992-93?
Ryan Miller and Martin Biron are likely to square off for the first time on Easter Sunday. Miller could end all the talks if he plays well. But if the Flyers win, we're in for a boatload of complaining, SABRES NATION.
4.01.2007
New Jersey Fires Coach While In Second In the East
Well, SABRES NATION, something so rare and huge has happened in hockey that I can't help but post about it. Take a night off of the Sabres and bask in the crazy world of the NHL.Claude Julien has posted a 47-24-8 = 102 record this season. The Martin Brodeur (right) led New Jersey Devils currently sit in second in the Eastern Conference, five points behind our own beloved Buffalo Sabres.
The trap defense has served the Devils excellently. They've won four of their last five and have had a great second half of the season. They have only scored 209 goals, meaning they average 2.64 goals a game. But, they've also allowed only 195 goals. I can't find anywhere where there's a stat, but I'm sure they have won the most games with two or less goals and most likely the most one goal games in the league.
Until this was released this morning: "I did not feel that we were going in the right direction, both mentally and hockey(-wise), going into the playoffs, for a variety of reasons," the New Jersey Devils GM told The Canadian Press."
That GM is Lou Lamoriello. Obviously, he's not a if-it's-not-broke-don't-fix-it kind of guy. He's done a similar thing twice before.
The move proved to shock everyone- "Without question," Lamoriello said." It's surprising to people but they only have the surface and not the knowledge. This was an easy decision not to make. It's certainly a decision that's more difficult to make." One GM, who requested anonymity Monday, told [Canadian Press]: "I thought April Fool's Day had moved a day."
Lamoriello cited there were other factors involved with Julien's dismissal. Though he never said what any of those other citations were.
Maybe it was the Devils 6-6-2 record in March? Doubtful, since they have been missing three of their biggest stars in Captain Patrick Elias, Rochester native Brian Gionta, and defenseman John Madden.
I don't know how the Devils will fare with a new coach 80 games into the season. I fully expect them to falter fast in the playoffs, though.
3.29.2007
Briere To Be a Big Target In The Playoffs
How many of you are shaking your heads? "UH, DUH!"
Of course he's going to be a target for the other team. But the target he is now isn't the same one you were thinking of.
Daniel Briere, the Co-Captain of our own Buffalo Sabres, has been called for Diving twice this year.
Diving is a new penalty instituted in the NHL rulebook after the 2004-05 season strike. It was one of the penalties that was supposed to help open up the game to create more revenue. Scoring brings fans and fans bring money.
Anyways, the stipulations of the Diving call are as follows, per NHL.com:
Briere was called for his second Diving offense in the second Toronto game last Saturday.
Obviously, Briere with his small stature is more prone to fall than others. Players have turned diving into an art form- they use it to help their team gain momentum by getting on a powerplay.
But Briere is now going to be agitated and poked and pushed and anything else that may get him to fall.
Think of the effect on the Buffalo Sabres organization if one of the Buffalo Captains was suspended for an offense such as diving. The psychological effect of the Captain taking the easy way out- and not even just the Captain, the Buffalo points leader.
Teams will be doing everything they can throughout the entire Stanley Cup playoffs to try and take Buffalo's biggest scoring threat out for game or so. This could also prove to be a two way swing- what team wouldn't get a lift knowing the other's number one guy wasn't playing?
Of course he's going to be a target for the other team. But the target he is now isn't the same one you were thinking of.
Daniel Briere, the Co-Captain of our own Buffalo Sabres, has been called for Diving twice this year.
Diving is a new penalty instituted in the NHL rulebook after the 2004-05 season strike. It was one of the penalties that was supposed to help open up the game to create more revenue. Scoring brings fans and fans bring money.
Anyways, the stipulations of the Diving call are as follows, per NHL.com:
| Rule 52 Diving (NEW for 2005-06) | |||
Obviously, Briere with his small stature is more prone to fall than others. Players have turned diving into an art form- they use it to help their team gain momentum by getting on a powerplay.
But Briere is now going to be agitated and poked and pushed and anything else that may get him to fall.
Think of the effect on the Buffalo Sabres organization if one of the Buffalo Captains was suspended for an offense such as diving. The psychological effect of the Captain taking the easy way out- and not even just the Captain, the Buffalo points leader.
Teams will be doing everything they can throughout the entire Stanley Cup playoffs to try and take Buffalo's biggest scoring threat out for game or so. This could also prove to be a two way swing- what team wouldn't get a lift knowing the other's number one guy wasn't playing?
3.27.2007
The Captains Respond The Goalies' Frustration
"Hopefully, it's the last one," co-captain Chris Drury [right] said. "I think the overall theme was, 'You're not going to win them all, but you certainly can control your effort, your focus and competitiveness.' We lacked that for a big chunk of six periods this weekend."The Captain speaks. Now the second person on the Sabres has spoken what a handful of us were thinking. He knows they were wrong, and maybe it only took Ryan Miller to get him to go public with it. Hopefully, a leader like Dru repeating what was said not three days ago may kick his linemates, the injured, and the healthy in the seat of the pants so they'll get into 'hero' mode. Nothing is better than watching these boys play with heart.
"This isn't a situation where we should be letting each other off the hook," goalie Ryan Miller said. "I think there were some situations where we weren't competing hard enough. I was a little ticked off after the game," Miller said. "Maybe I went a little too far, but I think everybody would say that we didn't compete hard enough to a man. And sometimes you've got to voice your opinion."
Miller seems to be saying his statements may have been too harsh. I know he knows they weren't but I think he is softening them up a bit so the Captains look like they feel the same thing beforehand. I'm sure they did, but they didn't voice it to the press first. He's also stating everyone is to blame, and no one is off the hook for not trying. Very admirable for a sophomore. Probably couldn't say it better or at a better time than he did. Kudos.
"He was right," co-captain Daniel Briere [right] said, referring to Miller. "We didn't play very well in front of him those two games."
Both Captains decided to say something, and I think that's excellent. I've never been prouder than now. The team is recognizing the problem and the three most important people on the roster are trying to fix that. I wouldn't be surprised if the playoffs do start tomorrow night and they play like they did in last year's playoffs.
Ruff said he wasn't aware of Miller's outburst. But he didn't disagree with his goalie. "It's OK to be angry," Ruff said. "As long as the player takes care of his area before speaking out, I'm OK with that. ... Everybody should be upset with what went on in those two games. And he should be one of them."
Nothing like a team banding together and the Coach right there behind him.
The last time we saw that was February 22nd. The Ottawa Brawl. And if we play that way all the time, we'd be unbeatable. I want to win 23 games in the remaining schedule.
We, the seventh man, have the power to make that happen. Stick with your team. Will them to work hard. The city of Buffalo is known for being hard working, blue collared good citizens. (Really, it is). Nothing would make us more happy for our team if they used the same elbow grease on the ice that we use at our desks, in our houses, outside in the lawn, what have you.
So here's to 23 more wins...and 16 of them starting April 11th.
Let's go, Sabres.
Play with the same amount of heart that we watch you with.
3.26.2007
Ryan Miller Calls Out Defense; Injured Limp Back On Ice
"If we wanna be the big, bad team we THINK we are, we're gonna have to show a little more effort, that's for sure. Earlier in the games, at least. We KNOW we have the capability to score, but we gotta start playing complete hockey. You know, we better start learning some lessons, because we can't come back every night. It's not the way we wanna play hockey. It's nice to have that capability, but you can't get outshot two nights in a row, and look at it like we're happy with our game....We just have to be hungrier. There's no excuse. (Asked about how Toronto has been playing with such desperation....) We should use it, too, you know, that was a team we couldn't match up against. You've gotta play your best hockey every night, and not give the other team any kind of confidence..... You know...... we're gonna find soon that WE'RE gonna be the desperate team if we don't start playing good hockey."
- Ryan Miller after the loss at Toronto, Saturday, March 24th
While grit, determination, and flat-out hard work may be the three most cliche elements of victory in sports, they are only outperformed by the two most cliche elements of sports- heart and hustle.
Unfortunately, very few members of the Sabres have been playing with any of the five aforementioned characteristics. And those are the things that win championships.
I've been argued with countless times that when our injured heal we need a checking line. I don't think rolling four scoring lines will help our plight. We need guys on the ice that can scare the other team. Force them to think twice about hitting our star players hard or cheap.
Buffalo's lackluster play has largely been at fault for the funk we've been in. 6-4-2 in the last 12. With our high-octane, five man up five man down attack, there is no room for slow, lazy play, or we give up odd man rushes and gift wrap scoring chances like it's Christmas.
And we have been. Ryan Miller was the first person to stand up and say it, and hopefully that will light a fire under the Sabres' butts. Maybe they will remember digging out those first ten victories of the season and how accomplished they felt, especially after winning a couple in a shootout, after sixty-five minutes of pure dogfight.
Or maybe Ottawa and New Jersey sneaking up on us is something that is frightening them. I would be scared- Ottawa has been playing some excellent hockey as of late, led by Dany Heatley.
Either way, Buffalo needs to turn it on now- and hopefully get 23 more wins. As long as 16 of them come after April 8th, I'll be happy. But if they don't, SABRES NATION, don't be surprised if you don't get to see Chris Drury and Daniel Briere pick the Stanley Cup over their heads in their alternate jerseys.
Injury Update
Ales Kotalik will be back Wednesday against the New Jersey Devils.
Toni Lydman and Daniel Paille expect to return to action this weekend.
Don't be surprised if Paille goes back down to Rochester to get back into the swing of things. It wouldn't be a bad idea because Ryan, MacArthur and Stafford are used to the speed and still carry the conditioning.
Maxim Afinogenov has had no change, still the last game or two is possible.
And finally, Tim Connolly is on pace to be back for the last couple games of the season. If he gets his wind back quickly, he could be back as early as this weekend as well.
Season Scenarios- Seven games left
The Magic Numbers are now reflective of the games on 3/27.
-For Buffalo to win the Northeast division, any combination of Buffalo points and opponents squandered points that equals
a) Ottawa Senators- 8
-For Buffalo to win the Eastern Conference, any combination of Buffalo points and opponents squandered points that equals
a) New Jersey Devils- 8
b) Pittsburgh Penguins- 6
c) Ottawa Senators- 8
-For Buffalo to win the President's Trophy, any combination of Buffalo points and opponents squandered points that equals
a) Nashville Predators- 13
b) Detroit Red Wings- 13
c) Anaheim Ducks- 12
d) New Jersey Devils- 8
e) Vancouver Canucks- 10
f) Dallas Stars- 8
g) Pittsburgh Penguins- 6
h) Ottawa Senators- 8
i) San Jose Sharks- 8
j) Minnesota Wild- 7
3.24.2007
Drury's Troubles Stems From Him Being Too Good; We Need A Fourth Line
In response to an e-mail stating Drew Stafford is the same player as Chris Drury, only finishes better-
We haven't seen Chris Drury with a good finishing line...most of the things he does he ends up doing on his own (except the end of games and some powerplay goals, because of the 'hero' lines). Drew Stafford's good, of course, and I want him to be a Sabre, but I really think that Drury's a better finisher. Especially around the net. Stafford, as I have said, has been the beneficiary of a few brilliant passes, making his job MUCH EASIER. Drury is usually outsized in front of the net, and he finds some way to put it in. Or he runs a sweet wrister/slapper from the slot. I can't believe that Stafford's a better finisher until I see Drury on a line where he has the opportunities to finish like that.
Last year, Drury had Mike Grier (now with the San Jose Sharks) and Jochen Hecht as his linemates. Both very good players, but both grinders. To put up Drury's numbers with one TRUE grinder (Grier) and one sniper/grinder mix (Hecht) is quite an accomplishment. There's a reason Drury's probably the best team player in the league- he can play with ANYONE. Look at this year! If anyone has the right to complain about the injuries, it's Drury. First his lines have changed seemingly every week since mid-November, and then he got his face knocked off on a cheap shot.
Stafford IS good, but he also has Derek Roy, who is very good at setting things up, most of the time, and Thomas Vanek, who really pulls some of the opposition's defense towards him. The league knows he's good, and his linemates benefit. Roy also instigates the piss out of people because he's so little and they can't ever seem to light him up.
The only person in the league I could really see playing so well while playing musical chairs with their lines is Joe Thornton, right, of the San Jose Sharks.
In response to a message about Adam Mair not hitting everything that moved, and the possibility of having an Adam Mair/Ales Kotalik/ Pat Kaleta or Andrew Peters line.
Adam Mair turns it on in the playoffs. Granted it was only a few games last year, but he played extraordinarily well. He plays well in big games. Plus, it's really hard to get an idea of how effective he is when he only plays five minutes a game. Two hits in five minutes isn't bad. Think about it- Chris Neil plays about 12 minutes with Ottawa, and he averages about 2-3 hits a game...and he leads the league in hits. If Mair gets two hits in five minutes, that's pretty sweet. Mair-Kotalik-Kaleta, I think, are talented enough to get ten minutes a game. If you think about Kaleta's 4 hits per game average, and Mair's 2, that's six hits per game, which is actually quite a chuck of hits, especially because the three of them are forwards. And if Kotalik decides to throw around his mammoth body, we're talking a possibility of ten hits a game! That's not only impressive- that's elite.
Kotalik has a very heavy shot, and might play hard with the 'demotion' to the third line. With his heavy shot creating rebound chances for the big guys, this could really work to all of their advantages. I know Kotalik's a winger, but before he was injured, he was trying his hand at center, and played well as a pivot.
Mair isn't the kind of player Kaleta is- Kaleta will take himself out of a play to take someone else out of the play. And that's awesome, don't get me wrong, I love the way he plays. I want him wearing blue and yellow all next season. Mair actually has more hockey plays than Kaleta. He is good at getting in front of the net (and he does, frequently) just having Peters as a linemate takes away from his production. Obviously, Mair is no 20 goal scorer...but I could see him having ALMOST as many points as a healthy Paul Gaustad. Mair will dig in corners and clean out someone who's being disruptive to his teammates.
Peters IS a pylon. He doesn't skate well and the entire NHL knows it. He is a good fighter, he wins a bunch more than he loses. Fighting in playoff hockey won't happen that much (unless we play the Senators) I think. So he's good to be dressed just in case. But I'd much rather see a BIG HITTER (Kaleta) a grinder/teammate player (Mair) and a guy with a rocket (Kotalik). I could see Mair having five or more goals in the playoffs on this line, disrupting everyone, second chance goals or tip ins off of a Kotalik slapper.
Any other questions? Drop a comment. I'd be happy to respond.
We haven't seen Chris Drury with a good finishing line...most of the things he does he ends up doing on his own (except the end of games and some powerplay goals, because of the 'hero' lines). Drew Stafford's good, of course, and I want him to be a Sabre, but I really think that Drury's a better finisher. Especially around the net. Stafford, as I have said, has been the beneficiary of a few brilliant passes, making his job MUCH EASIER. Drury is usually outsized in front of the net, and he finds some way to put it in. Or he runs a sweet wrister/slapper from the slot. I can't believe that Stafford's a better finisher until I see Drury on a line where he has the opportunities to finish like that.
Last year, Drury had Mike Grier (now with the San Jose Sharks) and Jochen Hecht as his linemates. Both very good players, but both grinders. To put up Drury's numbers with one TRUE grinder (Grier) and one sniper/grinder mix (Hecht) is quite an accomplishment. There's a reason Drury's probably the best team player in the league- he can play with ANYONE. Look at this year! If anyone has the right to complain about the injuries, it's Drury. First his lines have changed seemingly every week since mid-November, and then he got his face knocked off on a cheap shot.
Stafford IS good, but he also has Derek Roy, who is very good at setting things up, most of the time, and Thomas Vanek, who really pulls some of the opposition's defense towards him. The league knows he's good, and his linemates benefit. Roy also instigates the piss out of people because he's so little and they can't ever seem to light him up.
The only person in the league I could really see playing so well while playing musical chairs with their lines is Joe Thornton, right, of the San Jose Sharks.
In response to a message about Adam Mair not hitting everything that moved, and the possibility of having an Adam Mair/Ales Kotalik/ Pat Kaleta or Andrew Peters line.
Adam Mair turns it on in the playoffs. Granted it was only a few games last year, but he played extraordinarily well. He plays well in big games. Plus, it's really hard to get an idea of how effective he is when he only plays five minutes a game. Two hits in five minutes isn't bad. Think about it- Chris Neil plays about 12 minutes with Ottawa, and he averages about 2-3 hits a game...and he leads the league in hits. If Mair gets two hits in five minutes, that's pretty sweet. Mair-Kotalik-Kaleta, I think, are talented enough to get ten minutes a game. If you think about Kaleta's 4 hits per game average, and Mair's 2, that's six hits per game, which is actually quite a chuck of hits, especially because the three of them are forwards. And if Kotalik decides to throw around his mammoth body, we're talking a possibility of ten hits a game! That's not only impressive- that's elite.
Kotalik has a very heavy shot, and might play hard with the 'demotion' to the third line. With his heavy shot creating rebound chances for the big guys, this could really work to all of their advantages. I know Kotalik's a winger, but before he was injured, he was trying his hand at center, and played well as a pivot.
Mair isn't the kind of player Kaleta is- Kaleta will take himself out of a play to take someone else out of the play. And that's awesome, don't get me wrong, I love the way he plays. I want him wearing blue and yellow all next season. Mair actually has more hockey plays than Kaleta. He is good at getting in front of the net (and he does, frequently) just having Peters as a linemate takes away from his production. Obviously, Mair is no 20 goal scorer...but I could see him having ALMOST as many points as a healthy Paul Gaustad. Mair will dig in corners and clean out someone who's being disruptive to his teammates.
Peters IS a pylon. He doesn't skate well and the entire NHL knows it. He is a good fighter, he wins a bunch more than he loses. Fighting in playoff hockey won't happen that much (unless we play the Senators) I think. So he's good to be dressed just in case. But I'd much rather see a BIG HITTER (Kaleta) a grinder/teammate player (Mair) and a guy with a rocket (Kotalik). I could see Mair having five or more goals in the playoffs on this line, disrupting everyone, second chance goals or tip ins off of a Kotalik slapper.
Any other questions? Drop a comment. I'd be happy to respond.
3.23.2007
The Home and Home With The Rivals Begins
Tonight, the league leading Buffalo Sabres (47-19-7 = 101) take on the playoff hungry Toronto Maple Leafs ( 35-28-10 = 80) at HSBC arena.Toronto is looking for their return to the playoffs. Last year was the first year the Leafs hadn't been involved in post season play in almost ten years. When the Leafs were in a similar position last year, tough guy Andrew Peters, right, got into a scuffle with the most hated Leaf, Darcy Tucker. Peters was separated from Tucker before anything else could happen with fighter Wade Belak.
Lo and behold, Peters wasn't done yet. He used his stick as a golf club and taunted Belak, because instead of going to the playoffs, he was going to be hitting the links. View it here.
Tonight marks the very emotional return of Tomas Kaberle. He is returning from his concussion suffered in early March due to a very dirty hit by Cam Janssen of the New Jersey Devils.
He will give Toronto's defense a big lift tonight, though they're pretty slow. If Buffalo's speed is on, Toronto doesn't stand a chance.
Buffalo is ahead 4-2 in the season after two dominating wins in the end of February and the beginning of March.
I say Buffalo, 4-1.
3.22.2007
Separate Roy/Afinogenov/Vanek When Max is Healthy? HECK YES!
Okay, SABRES NATION, I'm going to try something a little different tonight. Give me feedback on your thoughts. Let me know whether you like this or not.
Tonight, I was on the Sabres message boards, and I happened to get involved in a very heated discussion with a member who loves the Derek Roy/Maxim Afinogenov/ Thomas Vanek line. It's a great line, but since Drew Stafford has filled in for Max, making the Roy/Stafford/Vanek line, it has created many debates about where to put Max, and in turn, where to put Stafford.
Stafford is a rookie, and Max is a proven Veteran, meaning Max will probably produce wherever he goes, though it's possible he won't have as many points. Stafford may not produce as well with other linemates.
What I will do differently is basically cut and copy the discussion I had. I won't do this often, only when I feel it's pertinent and relatively interesting.
Arguer- The opposition
Aguees- Me (with an asterisk) and knucklesandwich
Original post by arguer: Stafford has 12 points in his last 12 games. Max when he was with Roy was getting more than a point per game. You fans are so funny. Max will go back on the RAV line. See Max plays very well with Roy and Connolly. Stafford can play well with Drury. Do you see my point? Zubrus can go lay an egg. put him on the 4th line. There is also no way to know how Max and Zubrus will play together. I don't want Max with a guy whos a big minus all the time. Zubrus was even a minus vs washington. Vanek, Roy and Max will be a plus line and have good chemistry together. Don't get all excited over a players 12 game stats. Max put up good numbers all season and last year. Why break up the RAV line.
arguees- The RAV Line broke up the minute Max got hurt, and since then, Stafford's been playing GREAT with them. You don't break up a Line THAT productive, EVER.
arguer-Max was getting 1.5 points per game with Vanek and Roy. Why didn't we trade Max if hes going to play 5 minutes on the 4th line. So if Kurri was hurt for 20 games you would not put him back with Gretzky when he was better? You better go back and watch the highlights of the RAV line. Stafford is a rookie and is still learning. You guys all ready have him in the hall of fame. 5 good game don't make a career. max is a better player at this point in his career. Better also than Zubrus.
arguees- Stafford has been phenomenal with Roy and Vanek, and Max has been clamoring about how he wants to play with Zubrus, and Zubrus has been extremely effective since he got acclamated to our system, and is improving daily.
The Arguer then put up facts that Max has put up a better point to game ration than Stafford. Which is true, but the line together hasn't. I produced the following statistical evidence:
arguees*-Afinogenov - 1.07 PPG
Roy before Afinogenov injury - .72 PPG
After - 1.06 PPG
Vanek before Afinogenov injury - .96 PPG
After - 1 PPG
Stafford before Afinogenov injury - .26 PPG
After - 1 PPG
Therefore, statistical evidence shows that RAV scores 2.75 PPG while SRV line scores 3.06 PPG. Who's got more chemistry? The line isn't about Max, it's about all three players.
arguer- Max has 13 points in his last 8 games. Stafford has had 12 in the last 12 games.
With this, I compiled the statistics of the players in the eight games prior to Max's injury, Feb 15th against Edmonton.
arguee*- Okay, 13 points in 8 games for Max - 1.625 points per game
in those same eight games
Vanek - .875 PPG
Roy - .5 PPG
RAV before Max's injury - 3 PPG
SVR - 3.06 PPG
Sorry, man, but the new line is STILL more productive even with hot streak of Max included.
Okay, guys, that's pretty much the most important parts of the thread. This is a huge debate within SABRES NATION right now, and since I'd been talking about it all night, I thought it would be beneficial for everyone to know where I stand on the issue.
Season Scenarios
The Magic Numbers are now reflective of the games on 3/22.
-For Buffalo to win the Northeast division, any combination of Buffalo points and opponents squandered points that equals
a) Ottawa Senators- 10
-For Buffalo to win the Eastern Conference, any combination of Buffalo points and opponents squandered points that equals
a) New Jersey Devils- 10
b) Pittsburgh Penguins- 8
c) Ottawa Senators- 10
-For Buffalo to win the President's Trophy, any combination of Buffalo points and opponents squandered points that equals
a) Nashville Predators- 16
b) Detroit Red Wings- 16
c) Anaheim Ducks- 14
d) New Jersey Devils- 10
e) Vancouver Canucks- 12
f) Dallas Stars- 11
g) Pittsburgh Penguins- 8
h) Ottawa Senators- 10
i) San Jose Sharks- 10
j) Minnesota Wild- 9
Tonight, I was on the Sabres message boards, and I happened to get involved in a very heated discussion with a member who loves the Derek Roy/Maxim Afinogenov/ Thomas Vanek line. It's a great line, but since Drew Stafford has filled in for Max, making the Roy/Stafford/Vanek line, it has created many debates about where to put Max, and in turn, where to put Stafford.
Stafford is a rookie, and Max is a proven Veteran, meaning Max will probably produce wherever he goes, though it's possible he won't have as many points. Stafford may not produce as well with other linemates.
What I will do differently is basically cut and copy the discussion I had. I won't do this often, only when I feel it's pertinent and relatively interesting.
Arguer- The opposition
Aguees- Me (with an asterisk) and knucklesandwich
Original post by arguer: Stafford has 12 points in his last 12 games. Max when he was with Roy was getting more than a point per game. You fans are so funny. Max will go back on the RAV line. See Max plays very well with Roy and Connolly. Stafford can play well with Drury. Do you see my point? Zubrus can go lay an egg. put him on the 4th line. There is also no way to know how Max and Zubrus will play together. I don't want Max with a guy whos a big minus all the time. Zubrus was even a minus vs washington. Vanek, Roy and Max will be a plus line and have good chemistry together. Don't get all excited over a players 12 game stats. Max put up good numbers all season and last year. Why break up the RAV line.
arguees- The RAV Line broke up the minute Max got hurt, and since then, Stafford's been playing GREAT with them. You don't break up a Line THAT productive, EVER.
arguer-Max was getting 1.5 points per game with Vanek and Roy. Why didn't we trade Max if hes going to play 5 minutes on the 4th line. So if Kurri was hurt for 20 games you would not put him back with Gretzky when he was better? You better go back and watch the highlights of the RAV line. Stafford is a rookie and is still learning. You guys all ready have him in the hall of fame. 5 good game don't make a career. max is a better player at this point in his career. Better also than Zubrus.
arguees- Stafford has been phenomenal with Roy and Vanek, and Max has been clamoring about how he wants to play with Zubrus, and Zubrus has been extremely effective since he got acclamated to our system, and is improving daily.
The Arguer then put up facts that Max has put up a better point to game ration than Stafford. Which is true, but the line together hasn't. I produced the following statistical evidence:
arguees*-Afinogenov - 1.07 PPG
Roy before Afinogenov injury - .72 PPG
After - 1.06 PPG
Vanek before Afinogenov injury - .96 PPG
After - 1 PPG
Stafford before Afinogenov injury - .26 PPG
After - 1 PPG
Therefore, statistical evidence shows that RAV scores 2.75 PPG while SRV line scores 3.06 PPG. Who's got more chemistry? The line isn't about Max, it's about all three players.
arguer- Max has 13 points in his last 8 games. Stafford has had 12 in the last 12 games.
With this, I compiled the statistics of the players in the eight games prior to Max's injury, Feb 15th against Edmonton.
arguee*- Okay, 13 points in 8 games for Max - 1.625 points per game
in those same eight games
Vanek - .875 PPG
Roy - .5 PPG
RAV before Max's injury - 3 PPG
SVR - 3.06 PPG
Sorry, man, but the new line is STILL more productive even with hot streak of Max included.
Okay, guys, that's pretty much the most important parts of the thread. This is a huge debate within SABRES NATION right now, and since I'd been talking about it all night, I thought it would be beneficial for everyone to know where I stand on the issue.
Season Scenarios
The Magic Numbers are now reflective of the games on 3/22.
-For Buffalo to win the Northeast division, any combination of Buffalo points and opponents squandered points that equals
a) Ottawa Senators- 10
-For Buffalo to win the Eastern Conference, any combination of Buffalo points and opponents squandered points that equals
a) New Jersey Devils- 10
b) Pittsburgh Penguins- 8
c) Ottawa Senators- 10
-For Buffalo to win the President's Trophy, any combination of Buffalo points and opponents squandered points that equals
a) Nashville Predators- 16
b) Detroit Red Wings- 16
c) Anaheim Ducks- 14
d) New Jersey Devils- 10
e) Vancouver Canucks- 12
f) Dallas Stars- 11
g) Pittsburgh Penguins- 8
h) Ottawa Senators- 10
i) San Jose Sharks- 10
j) Minnesota Wild- 9
3.21.2007
Sabres Rock Capitals and Revitalize Power Play
The Buffalo Sabres took the beginning steps to making up for their terrible three game home stand two weeks ago.Drew Stafford, right, scored two goals and had one disallowed as the Sabres trainwrecked Alexander Ovechkin and the Capitals 5-2. The HSBC crowd was in the game early, making sure Ovechkin was booed every time he entered the offensive zone with the puck.
The first goal of the night was scored forty seconds in the second period on a nice backhand on a short angle by playmaker Derek Roy. This was a rebound goal from a rocket shot by Dmitri Kalinin. Olaf Kolzig, the Capitals keeper nicked it with his glove and it went over the net, cracked the glass, and bounced to Derek Roy on the far side who wasted no time converting.
This was Buffalo's first powerplay goal in seven games, dating back to March 2nd against the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Eight minutes later, on a takeaway by Danius Zubrus, Clarke MacArthur scored in his big league trip again. Zubrus left a backhanded pass to Adam Mair, who dragged Kolzig to t
he side of the net. He pushed a pass across the ice to MacArthur who fired a shot quickly, seeing Kolzig out of position. Kolzig caught a piece of it, but it dribbled in.At the fifteen minute mark, Brian Pothier, right, let a slapshot go from the point that found it's mark top shelf over Ryan Miller.
It didn't take Buffalo long to answer back- on the powerplay. Chris Drury fed the puck behind the boards to Danius Zubrus, who took one of his former teammates out of the play while sticking the puck to Daniel Briere.
Briere worked around to the front of the net and wristed a nifty shot past Kolzig.
Drew Stafford scored both of his goals in the third period. One of which he turned the Washington defense inside out and put a beautiful shot over the top of Kolzig.
Donald Brashear rounded out the scoring for the night with a rebound conversion over Miller, with ninety-five seconds left in the game.
Season Scenarios
The win lowered all of Buffalo's magic numbers.
-For Buffalo to win the Northeast division, any combination of Buffalo points and opponents squandered points that equals
a) Ottawa Senators- 10
-For Buffalo to win the Eastern Conference, any combination of Buffalo points and opponents squandered points that equals
a) New Jersey Devils- 12
b) Pittsburgh Penguins- 10
c) Ottawa Senators- 10
-For Buffalo to win the President's Trophy, any combination of Buffalo points and opponents squandered points that equals
a) Nashville Predators- 18
b) Detroit Red Wings- 17
c) Anaheim Ducks- 16
d) New Jersey Devils- 12
e) Vancouver Canucks- 12
f) Dallas Stars- 11
g) Pittsburgh Penguins- 10
h) Ottawa Senators- 10
i) San Jose Sharks- 10
j) Minnesota Wild- 8
(Thanks to knucklesandwich on the Buffalo Sabres official forums for some of this)
3.20.2007
Another Suspension; Sabres Ready For Ovechkin and Co.
On March 17th, the Dallas Stars met up with the Nashville Predators in a playoff type game. Mike Modano, fresh off setting the record for most goals by a U.S. born player, was checked very hard by Jordan Tootoo, right, into the boards.When Stephane Robidas came to defend the Stars' star Modano, Tootoo threw a straight arm punch under Robidas' visor. The blow knocked Robidas unconscious and he had to be removed by stretcher.
View it here.
As you can clearly see, Robidas was not ready to fight...yet. He was about to start one, definitely, but with gloves on and stick in hand it looked like Tootoo was going to get the 'prefight check'. Instead of taking on Robidas in a fair fashion, Tootoo threw a punch -hard, with gloves on- into the unprotected part of Robidas' face.
To too many Sabres fans, this was familiar to the Buffalo game when Nashville forward Scott Nichol sucker punched Jaroslav Spacek in December. Here.
Tootoo was given only a five game suspension, one which I think is too short. At least the league did do something about it, I have a sick feeling that if Robidas wasn't removed via stretcher, the league would have done nothing.
Wednesday's Gamenight
Wednesday, the top seeded Buffalo Sabres (46-19-7 = 99) take on the 14th seed Washington Capitals (26-34-13 = 65). This is Buffalo's first game at home since the three game slide vs New Jersery, the Wild, and the Avalanche. Buffalo is 2-0-2 in the last four games, and after having nearly three days off, look for them to come out screaming.
This game is also a game of vengeance. Jiri Novotny faces his former team in the Sabres and Danius Zubrus faces his former mates on the Capitals for the first time since the trade deadline. Novotny left with a bad taste in his mouth; he didn't want to go. Neither player have been big deals to their new teams yet, each scoring 3 points or less.
However, one player that has been playing great since the deadline is Alexander Semin, right. The 'other' Alexander, as he is known, has eight points in his last four games (4+4), including two three point performances and a hat trick. This young guy has feasted with the top line taking on the dynamo Ovechkin, scoring 37 goals and 30 assists in 69 games.
Ovechkin will also be closely watched. After the infamous Daniel Briere and Ovechkin check and spear, the Buffalo crowd has booed him every time he has stepped on the ice. Expect no different. What you should expect different is that there shouldn't be any fights or scuffles or cheap shots this game. It's most likely gone after the confrontation on the ice the last time these two teams met.
I may be being an optimistic homer, but I have to believe that Buffalo is goig to break out of their home funk and win this game, if only for the fans. This year both teams have put up huge numbers in their meetings, so I say Buffalo, 3-1. Teams don't always score big numbers against each other. Buffalo's defense seems to be settling in as well and it looks like Toni Lydman will be back, thus my pick for a low scoring game.
3.18.2007
Six of Eight Points on Spring Break Road Trip
SABRES NATION readers, I apologize for my lack of updates this past four days. My Spring Break started, so I've been pretty busy. Nevertheless, this blog should cover most of the important going-ons this past half week and the results of all Sabres games, starting with:
Buffalo at Florida
With Buffalo (then 44-19-6) at Florida Thursday night with three games in 3 and a half days, Lindy Ruff gave newcomer Ty Conklin the start against the 13th seed Panthers. 'Conkers' proceeded to go bonkers in net, making 42 out of 45 saves. Though Florida just tends to throw anything at the net, 'Conks' still made at least twenty or twenty five quality saves, and let no ugly shots go in, which is an excellent change of pace.
"My mind-set going into it was that I want to make a good impression, you want the guys to feel confident with you in the net," Conklin, left, said. "While it's only one game, it's a bit of a start."
Buffalo surrendered an early 1-0 lead, but fought back with three goals in the second period. Florida scored again as well, leaving the second period with a 3-2 lead. Florida tied the game quickly, and around the eleven minute mark, Buffalo scored again. Captain Clutch Chris Drury scored what proved to be the game winner. Shortly after, Ed Belfour was baffled by Drew Stafford at the five minute mark, and Buffalo just killed the last five minute on the clock. This was a big win for a troublesome Florida team who was previously on a 7-1-2 streak and an 8-1-2 streak at home.
The big UGH of this game was that top Buffalo defender Toni Lydman left the game with a still undisclosed head injury. He's still Day-to-Day.
Buffalo at Tampa Bay
The next night, Buffalo (45-19-6) was in Tampa Bay to take on the Lightning. Fun fact: Tampa has $21 million tied up in three players (Brad Richard, Vincent Lecavalier, and Martin St. Louis) out of the $44 million cap, leaving $23 million to sign 17 players. That's trouble if one of them gets injured, though.
Tampa jumped out to an early lead as Vincent Lecavalier, the league's leading goal scorer, beat Ryan Miller high.
Five minutes later, the population of Pominville increased to thirty on the season as Jason deflected a Nathan Paetsch shot. Shortly thereafter, (thirty-six seconds shortly) Derek Roy buried his shot from Thomas Vanek and Drew Stafford. It seems these linemates are back to their former selves, playing as well as they did in that five game scoring tear.
Then came one of the most incredible calls I've ever heard from Rick Jeanneret. On consecutive shifts, Jason Pominville, right, scored, giving him two in the game, and thirty-one on the season. To go along with his famous play on Pommers' last name, he exclaimed that "Pominville is going to need to open a Planned Parenthood center!" You can hear it here, at about the 1:17 mark.
Buffalo lasted for a 3-2 victory enclosing an undefeated tour of Florida- though being outshot 37-20.
Buffalo at Atlanta
Buffalo looked poised to beat Atlanta coming off a solid 2-0-1 stretch, and a fresh goalie. For the fourth game in a row, Buffalo uncharacteristically gave up the first goal to the opposing team. Ilya Kovalchuck ripped a shot from the slot after recieving a pass from longtime Sabre Alexei Zhitnik. This was a five on three powerplay, as Adam Mair was in the box for interference and Chris Drury, the Sabres' best penalty killer, was in for delay of game after shooting the puck into the crowd.
Zhitnik, right, was traded with Miroslav Satan to the Islanders for the injured Tim Connolly and the now departed Taylor Pyatt.
Less than three minutes later, Drew Stafford tied it at one. This was a three on two break that was perfect from start to finish, and Buffalo exercised it's odd man rush muscle. Jeanneret's partner, Jim Lorentz stated that he felt Buffalo's odd-man rush offense was the best in the league.
Buffalo ended the period down 2-1 on a nice wrist shot by Eric Belanger beating Miller stick side.
The second period contained Buffalo's only good powerplay of the day. Teppo Numminen had the biggest part in it, and Thomas Vanek also played very well on it. Unfortunately, Buffalo couldn't get a goal out of it, but scored shortly after the game went even strength. Vanek deflected a Teppo shot and it went right under Thrasher tender Kari Lehtonen.
This was basically it to a very boring second period.
The third period was very stressful for Sabres fans to watch. Our powerplay was piss poor and wasn't looking any better. At about the eight minute mark, Adam Mair was given a very controversial penalty that ended up being a knife in the Sabres' hearts.
Alexei Zhitnik scored on a slap shot from the blue line less than ten seconds into the penalty. Buffalo battled back, though. On a rush five minutes later, Henrik Tallinder ripped a rocket slapshot from the blue line that caught Lehtonen in a awkward place on the helmet. Lehtonen was stunned just long enough for Derek Roy to collect the rebound and shove it in the net on a wraparound.
The game caromed into overtime. However at the end of regulation, Keith Tkachuk took a slashing penalty, so Buffalo started overtime with a 4 on 3. Buffalo just couldn't get anything going, even though they did take four shots.
Jaroslav Spacek took a penalty near the end of the Buffalo powerplay, sending the Thrashers on the powerplay, where they had been deadly. This powerplay proved no different, as Tkachuck ripped a wrist shot past Miller with 38 seconds left.
All in all, it was a good road trip. To play away and in that different of environments against teams fighting for playoff spots or positions and come away with six our of eight points is something to be proud of.
They do have some work to do before I'm entirely convinced their losing stint is over. But this isn't unlike Buffalo's 1-7-1 streak late last year.
Buffalo at Florida
With Buffalo (then 44-19-6) at Florida Thursday night with three games in 3 and a half days, Lindy Ruff gave newcomer Ty Conklin the start against the 13th seed Panthers. 'Conkers' proceeded to go bonkers in net, making 42 out of 45 saves. Though Florida just tends to throw anything at the net, 'Conks' still made at least twenty or twenty five quality saves, and let no ugly shots go in, which is an excellent change of pace.
"My mind-set going into it was that I want to make a good impression, you want the guys to feel confident with you in the net," Conklin, left, said. "While it's only one game, it's a bit of a start."
Buffalo surrendered an early 1-0 lead, but fought back with three goals in the second period. Florida scored again as well, leaving the second period with a 3-2 lead. Florida tied the game quickly, and around the eleven minute mark, Buffalo scored again. Captain Clutch Chris Drury scored what proved to be the game winner. Shortly after, Ed Belfour was baffled by Drew Stafford at the five minute mark, and Buffalo just killed the last five minute on the clock. This was a big win for a troublesome Florida team who was previously on a 7-1-2 streak and an 8-1-2 streak at home.
The big UGH of this game was that top Buffalo defender Toni Lydman left the game with a still undisclosed head injury. He's still Day-to-Day.
Buffalo at Tampa Bay
The next night, Buffalo (45-19-6) was in Tampa Bay to take on the Lightning. Fun fact: Tampa has $21 million tied up in three players (Brad Richard, Vincent Lecavalier, and Martin St. Louis) out of the $44 million cap, leaving $23 million to sign 17 players. That's trouble if one of them gets injured, though.
Tampa jumped out to an early lead as Vincent Lecavalier, the league's leading goal scorer, beat Ryan Miller high.
Five minutes later, the population of Pominville increased to thirty on the season as Jason deflected a Nathan Paetsch shot. Shortly thereafter, (thirty-six seconds shortly) Derek Roy buried his shot from Thomas Vanek and Drew Stafford. It seems these linemates are back to their former selves, playing as well as they did in that five game scoring tear.
Then came one of the most incredible calls I've ever heard from Rick Jeanneret. On consecutive shifts, Jason Pominville, right, scored, giving him two in the game, and thirty-one on the season. To go along with his famous play on Pommers' last name, he exclaimed that "Pominville is going to need to open a Planned Parenthood center!" You can hear it here, at about the 1:17 mark.
Buffalo lasted for a 3-2 victory enclosing an undefeated tour of Florida- though being outshot 37-20.
Buffalo at Atlanta
Buffalo looked poised to beat Atlanta coming off a solid 2-0-1 stretch, and a fresh goalie. For the fourth game in a row, Buffalo uncharacteristically gave up the first goal to the opposing team. Ilya Kovalchuck ripped a shot from the slot after recieving a pass from longtime Sabre Alexei Zhitnik. This was a five on three powerplay, as Adam Mair was in the box for interference and Chris Drury, the Sabres' best penalty killer, was in for delay of game after shooting the puck into the crowd.
Zhitnik, right, was traded with Miroslav Satan to the Islanders for the injured Tim Connolly and the now departed Taylor Pyatt.
Less than three minutes later, Drew Stafford tied it at one. This was a three on two break that was perfect from start to finish, and Buffalo exercised it's odd man rush muscle. Jeanneret's partner, Jim Lorentz stated that he felt Buffalo's odd-man rush offense was the best in the league.
Buffalo ended the period down 2-1 on a nice wrist shot by Eric Belanger beating Miller stick side.
The second period contained Buffalo's only good powerplay of the day. Teppo Numminen had the biggest part in it, and Thomas Vanek also played very well on it. Unfortunately, Buffalo couldn't get a goal out of it, but scored shortly after the game went even strength. Vanek deflected a Teppo shot and it went right under Thrasher tender Kari Lehtonen.
This was basically it to a very boring second period.
The third period was very stressful for Sabres fans to watch. Our powerplay was piss poor and wasn't looking any better. At about the eight minute mark, Adam Mair was given a very controversial penalty that ended up being a knife in the Sabres' hearts.
Alexei Zhitnik scored on a slap shot from the blue line less than ten seconds into the penalty. Buffalo battled back, though. On a rush five minutes later, Henrik Tallinder ripped a rocket slapshot from the blue line that caught Lehtonen in a awkward place on the helmet. Lehtonen was stunned just long enough for Derek Roy to collect the rebound and shove it in the net on a wraparound.
The game caromed into overtime. However at the end of regulation, Keith Tkachuk took a slashing penalty, so Buffalo started overtime with a 4 on 3. Buffalo just couldn't get anything going, even though they did take four shots.
Jaroslav Spacek took a penalty near the end of the Buffalo powerplay, sending the Thrashers on the powerplay, where they had been deadly. This powerplay proved no different, as Tkachuck ripped a wrist shot past Miller with 38 seconds left.
All in all, it was a good road trip. To play away and in that different of environments against teams fighting for playoff spots or positions and come away with six our of eight points is something to be proud of.
They do have some work to do before I'm entirely convinced their losing stint is over. But this isn't unlike Buffalo's 1-7-1 streak late last year.
3.14.2007
Dmitri Kalinin and Pittsburgh's Future
Dmitri Kalinin, right, the Sabres high flying, quick skating defenseman, has been slammed throughout the year. The young player does have a few seasons under his belt, but his best season was in 2003-04, before the lockout and the rule changes.He is better suited for this NHL, though he is an unlucky guy. He routinely does have pucks deflect off him and past our goaltenders. People, especially Sabres fans, are way too quick to push all the blame on Kalinin.
Yes, they can point out his flaws. So can I. He tends to have a few giveaways in our zone, and once in a while his outlet pass isn't very good. He tends to watch the skater when covering a man in front of the net instead of the play as well.
But he also does a pretty good job poke checking and a fair job keeping his man under control. He joins the rush extremely well, and plays his best games when allowed to skate freely. Kalinin is no top 2 defenseman on many teams, but he definitely is top four on our team.
Ease off Kalinin. He's a solid player, and fairly dependable. Yes, it's easy to blame someone when the puck goes off them into the net upwards of five times a year, but it's not his fault.
As Yoda would say: Bad breaks does not a bad defenseman make.
Pittsburgh, Lemieux Ink New Deal
After months of pressure from Mario Lemieux (owner of the Pittsburgh Penguins) and the NHL's agenda to keep the large market Penguins in Pittsburgh, the deal has finally been done.
After months of painstaking negotiations, the Penguins were given a thirty year lease on what will be a brand- spanking new $290 million arena.
The arguments began long ago after Lemieux, right, stated that for this new, young team, we need a new arena. The Mellon Arena where the Penguins currently play is the oldest arena in the league. Buffalo's old Auditorium and the Montreal Forum were constructed near the time the Mellon was constructed.
Buffalo has been in HSBC for nearly ten years and Montreal has been out of the Forum for almost as long.
This solidifies one of the youngest lineups in the league and puts them dead center at the heart of their team. Crosby, Malkin, Staal, Fleury, Armstrong, Malone, and Whitney are the young centerpieces of this team and Pitt will try to keep them for many few years.
People have compared the Penguins this year to the Edmonton Oilers before they started their tear of Stanley Cups in the eighties. Crosby is being compared to Greztky, for sure.
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