December 23rd. The Boston Bruins pre-Christmas schedule comes to a close and boy have they given us something to be happy about. A marvelous move by Pouliout, Marchand's first career hat trick and Tuukka Rask's second straight shutout led the way as the Bruins demolished the Southeast division leading Florida Panthers. The Bruins go into the break much in the same way they have gone into every game since the page turned leaving October in the rearview mirror. They made a statement. A loud, enthusiastic, and very clear statement. The Bruins completely outclassed the Panthers in a game that was even more heavily one way than the score may appear. All but four Bruins notched a point, Marchand leading the way with 5 and Bergeron chipping in with 3. Special teams continued to play a big role, the B's scoring on both the PP and kill. Tuukka turned away 31 shots for back to back shutouts for the second time in his career. The Bruins put on a clinic tonight, thoroughly dominating even strength, including a 4 on 4 goal. The layers they employ, the clogging of the neutral zone, the heavy fore check, and the board game are paying dividends, and in a big way. To make the night even sweeter, Philly came out with a losing effort at Madison Square Garden, moving the Bruins back into first place in the Eastern Conference with a game in hand.
The Bruins 23 wins is the best in the NHL, and trail only the Chicago Blackhawks, by 1 point with 2 games in hand. The Bruins have an overall record of 23-9-1 and continue to be at the top of the power rankings. Now I understand the power rankings do not mean a whole lot, but here are some numbers and a statement you cannot argue with. The Bruins are the hottest team in the NHL. I don't mean this week. I don't even mean this month. They have overcome some injuries, a suspension to their top line winger, and have improved that power play (although I'll admit, it would have been tough to go backwards) without the ultra talented playmaker, Marc Savard. Since November 1st, the Bruins have gone an unbelievable 20-2-1 and have outscored their opponents 97-38. Tyler Seguin leads the league at a +26, and there are 5 other Bruins in the top 10. The Bruins are a +34 in the 3rd period. There is more distance between the Bruins and the second place team then there is between 2 and 23rd. The goaltending has been phenomenal. I challenge you to come up with any logical argument to support a claim of a better tandem anywhere in the NHL. Would you believe that Tuukka's numbers are actually better than Timmy's? Tukka has a GAA of 1.66, Thomas is coming in at a 1.84. Tukka has a slight edge is save percentage, .944 to Timmy's .943. Thomas is tied for the league lead with 4 SO's, Rask with 2. Maybe the most beautiful stat of all is starts. Tim Thomas is barely in the top 20, coming in at 19. That means that this team is playing at an elite level and resting the tenders at the same time. Timmy is a tank, pun fully intended, and has shown to be a horse that can carry a heavy work load. Imagine how good he could become time for a playoff run with fresh legs. This team seems to have fixed their problems with only playing well in front of Thomas.
Probably the biggest aspect of the game that has changed for this team, the killer instinct. They do not sit back and collapse on their goal or play a red line and dump game. This team ramps it up and once it smells blood, it goes in for the kill. Hopefully that Flyers series a couple years back has completely cured them of that game plan. As we wind down on the first third of the year, there are some really telling stats to look at. The Bruins only have 4 players with double digit goals, and only have two players in the top 20 there. The Bruins only have one player in the top 30 for total points. Yet this team leads the league in goals scored per game(3.52) and goals given up per game(1.88).This team is second in total goals scored(116), trailing the Flyers by 2, and number 1 in total goals given up(62). Is that not astounding? This team does not have an Alex Ovechkin. It is a team based on consistent production from all four lines and believing and playing within a system that starts in their defensive zone.
The Bruins will open up the after Christmas stretch on the road with a December 27th game in Phoenix before heading to Dallas and New Jersey. They then return home for four starting with the second night of a back to back against the Calgary Flames. After that, most of January will be on the road. Sandwiched in their will be three matinee games highlighted by a January 7th afternoon rematch with the Vancouver Canucks. While the schedule is not easy, this team is playing so well and seem so confident that I cannot wait to get back to hockey again. What a blast! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. 'Til Next time, Let's Go Black and Gold!
Friday, December 23, 2011
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Monday, December 5, 2011
Bruins Shine, Dominate Pens
The Boston Bruins are feeling pretty good about themselves right now, and Monday night proved once again why. The B's went into Pittsburgh to play the Eastern Conference's best team, the Crosby powered Penguins. Well, the Bruins took the measuring stick and beat the Pens up and down the ice, outhitting, out battling, and dominating play for long stretches. Tim Thomas stood tall on multiple occasions and the whole Bruins PK deserved first star honors tonight. After some egregious officiating, the Bruins were left to kill two separate 5 on 3's, one for 1:37 and another for a full 2:00. The Bruins came out strong, consistently gaining entry into the offensive zone and spending some big chunks of time down there. To go along with great play by the forwards, the defensemen have been joining in lately and have been letting shots from the blue line go with regularity. McQuaid let one rip that ended up in the back of the goal, but it was disallowed for a un-penalized goaltender interference (correct call). The Bruins set the tone early and often, but both teams left the ice after one without anything on the scoreboard.
The second period started great as well, and the hard work paid off less than 3 minutes in. A blue collar shift by the fourth line wielded an opportunity in front of Fleury that Campbell took a swat at, got blocked, but elevated his second attempt over Fleury's mitt. Great effort and will to win, which is a staple of this teams and we are fortunate to see night after night. Benoit Pouliot got in on the action a little while later when he roofed a beautiful shot from the slot, once again the opportunity provided via grit and toughness. Sandwiched between those goals was a spirited bout by Brad Marchand, who was on his way to the box for tripping, and old friend Matt Niskanen. I do not think this team needed a lift so to speak, but they play much better when they are angry and physically involved. Brad Marchand provided that, and lit a bit of a fire as opposed to simply serving his two. The guys were excited about it, and the PK took care of the rest. The chippiness picked up from there. The second ended with the camera fixed on Crosby, who was yelling at David Krejci, I believe for messing up his hair. Let me expand upon that comment real quick. I will say a few things about Sidney: He is phenomenal. He is excellent. He is the best offensive player in the NHL (Although I think Datsyuk is 1A). But the guy suffers from Tom Brady syndrome. He wants to push and shove and use some nifty stick work, but do not do it back to him because he immediately looks to the refs. He doesn't dive and I am not saying he is dirty or cheap, but he is certainly one of the biggest cry babies in the sport. I'm getting off my soap box now.
Tyler Seguin notched a PP goal, his 13th of the year, 1:07 in after an absolutely beautiful play and set up by Patrice Bergeron. Matt Cooke broke up the shutout halfway through the 3rd after an unfortunate bounce on Seidenberg but great pass by Joe Vitale, more on him momentarily. It is always an aggravating feeling to see Matt Cooke playing this game while Marc Savard is at home, probably sitting in a dark room because of him. The Bruins once again showed the character of their team and their willingness to play for each other. Vitale, for the second straight rush, invaded Timmy's crease, this time bumping him and actually pushing down on Thomas's head. Like usual, 5 white sweaters were there immediately, gloves and sticks littering the ice. From the scrum emerged a nice lengthy bout between Soupy (Greg Campbell) and Vitale. Both combatants exchanged big blows, Vitale landing the final one before the arm weary warriors toppled to the ice. Whether or not you consider it a win or a loss for Campbell, there is no denying what it says about him as a teammate and person. Tim Thomas postgame echoed the value of the act, saying that Campbell's willingness to stand up for him was much appreciated. He went on to add that with this black and gold team, these acts are unsolicited. The Bruins do not need to be called out in the media and will not be made to look timid in their resolve to be there for each other, and to a man, this team believes in that. While the Bruins were heavily outshot 46-27, thanks in majority to some lengthy home cooking calls and a 23 shot 3rd period, the two teams were dead locked at 16 scoring chances a piece. The defenseman did a great job of forcing shots from the outside and keeping the lanes open for Timmy to track the rubber. He is currently riding a career best win streak at 10 in a row. The Bruins are on a 15 game point streak, going 14-0-1, their longest since the club went 17 games in a row without a loss back in 1983. The Bruins will embark on a nearly 1500 mile trip to Winnipeg for a Tuesday battle with the Jets before returning to the Garden to host the surging Panthers. This 3 game in 4 night trip will certainly test the Bruins, but they appear to be up to the challenge. Later start time tomorrow night, puck dropping around 8:30. Lets hope the boys can keep playing well and go after a new record streak of their own. Let's Go Black And Gold!
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The second period started great as well, and the hard work paid off less than 3 minutes in. A blue collar shift by the fourth line wielded an opportunity in front of Fleury that Campbell took a swat at, got blocked, but elevated his second attempt over Fleury's mitt. Great effort and will to win, which is a staple of this teams and we are fortunate to see night after night. Benoit Pouliot got in on the action a little while later when he roofed a beautiful shot from the slot, once again the opportunity provided via grit and toughness. Sandwiched between those goals was a spirited bout by Brad Marchand, who was on his way to the box for tripping, and old friend Matt Niskanen. I do not think this team needed a lift so to speak, but they play much better when they are angry and physically involved. Brad Marchand provided that, and lit a bit of a fire as opposed to simply serving his two. The guys were excited about it, and the PK took care of the rest. The chippiness picked up from there. The second ended with the camera fixed on Crosby, who was yelling at David Krejci, I believe for messing up his hair. Let me expand upon that comment real quick. I will say a few things about Sidney: He is phenomenal. He is excellent. He is the best offensive player in the NHL (Although I think Datsyuk is 1A). But the guy suffers from Tom Brady syndrome. He wants to push and shove and use some nifty stick work, but do not do it back to him because he immediately looks to the refs. He doesn't dive and I am not saying he is dirty or cheap, but he is certainly one of the biggest cry babies in the sport. I'm getting off my soap box now.
Tyler Seguin notched a PP goal, his 13th of the year, 1:07 in after an absolutely beautiful play and set up by Patrice Bergeron. Matt Cooke broke up the shutout halfway through the 3rd after an unfortunate bounce on Seidenberg but great pass by Joe Vitale, more on him momentarily. It is always an aggravating feeling to see Matt Cooke playing this game while Marc Savard is at home, probably sitting in a dark room because of him. The Bruins once again showed the character of their team and their willingness to play for each other. Vitale, for the second straight rush, invaded Timmy's crease, this time bumping him and actually pushing down on Thomas's head. Like usual, 5 white sweaters were there immediately, gloves and sticks littering the ice. From the scrum emerged a nice lengthy bout between Soupy (Greg Campbell) and Vitale. Both combatants exchanged big blows, Vitale landing the final one before the arm weary warriors toppled to the ice. Whether or not you consider it a win or a loss for Campbell, there is no denying what it says about him as a teammate and person. Tim Thomas postgame echoed the value of the act, saying that Campbell's willingness to stand up for him was much appreciated. He went on to add that with this black and gold team, these acts are unsolicited. The Bruins do not need to be called out in the media and will not be made to look timid in their resolve to be there for each other, and to a man, this team believes in that. While the Bruins were heavily outshot 46-27, thanks in majority to some lengthy home cooking calls and a 23 shot 3rd period, the two teams were dead locked at 16 scoring chances a piece. The defenseman did a great job of forcing shots from the outside and keeping the lanes open for Timmy to track the rubber. He is currently riding a career best win streak at 10 in a row. The Bruins are on a 15 game point streak, going 14-0-1, their longest since the club went 17 games in a row without a loss back in 1983. The Bruins will embark on a nearly 1500 mile trip to Winnipeg for a Tuesday battle with the Jets before returning to the Garden to host the surging Panthers. This 3 game in 4 night trip will certainly test the Bruins, but they appear to be up to the challenge. Later start time tomorrow night, puck dropping around 8:30. Lets hope the boys can keep playing well and go after a new record streak of their own. Let's Go Black And Gold!
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Thursday, December 1, 2011
B's End Historic Month On High Note
The Boston Bruins have ended November with their franchise best month since December of 1969. They are without a doubt the hottest team in the NHL. The Bruins were sitting in the basement when the calendar flipped to November, and knew that this month was going to be pivotal for them if they had any pipe dreams of a repeat hoist come summer. The black and gold answered their critics and themselves going 12-0-1, giving up only one of 26 possible points, that going to the western conference's Red Wings. Last night opened a home and home series with the division rival Maple Leafs up in Toronto, league leading point getter Phil Kessel once again entangled in the story lines. There was a lot of talk about how much this game meant to Toronto, who had gotten throttled on two earlier meetings with the Bruins to the tune of 13-2, including a 7-0 slashing on home ice. Still, Toronto found themselves at the top of the Northeast Division heading into the clash.
Both teams came out strong, with Toronto notching a PP tally from Grabovski to get the scoring started. Milan Lucic added a PP goal of his own to tie the game in a fast paced first which saw the Bruins have a slight edge in possession and shots, 17-16. Tim Thomas was once again a major factor, in the process adding to a career best win streak at 9 in a row. David Krejci opened the second period scoring with his fourth of the year. Joffrey Lupul tied it up a few minutes later before a Zdeno Chara put the Bruins ahead for good who has been red hot as of late with his 5th of the year. Three third period goals by the Bruins, Pouliot(3), Lucic(10) second of the night, and Marchand(9) added an empty netter, finished off the Maple Leafs in front of a sellout crowd. The score was not completely indicitive of the type of game played. It was a fast, physical, and even game up until about halfway through the third period, where not many teams can play with the Bruins. It definitely had a playoff feel to it, and it think it is safe to say Boston wants no part of helping Kessel with any success as they seem to have his number pretty well dialed up. Boston will be home at the Garden for the second half of this home and home Saturday night. The Leafs will want to extract some revenge, and once again the division lead will be up for grabs. Phaneuf should be a bit fired up due to some late game physicality he came out on the short end of, and I would not be surprised to see Colton Orr sitting on the visitors side. I expect another physical matchup with these two original six franchises.
With that, November is gone and this team will need to continue their hot streak if they want to stay in a playoff spot. The division lead looks to continue changing hands due to whoever has a night off, and the eight Eastern Conference playoff spots are separated by a measly 6 points, with 9,10,and 11 less than 13. December has not started off to bad though. We woke up this morning and learned that Timmy has been named the NHL first star for the entire month of November. To go along with that David Krejci has been inked to a three year extension. The news conference will be held at 1:00pm on NESN. I think this is a great move by Cam and Peter. There have been a lot of trade rumors lately involving David due to his slow start. It was my opinion that he was a franchise player and someone to continue to build your team around. Apparently management felt the same, and maybe the security of the contract will take some pressure off of 46 and he will get back to his normal level of play. For everyone keeping track, that is a huge UFA taken off the to do list come the off season. Big decisions are still to be made with Rask, Marchand, Lucic, and Horton set to come off the books. Happy Holidays and here's to the boys making this holiday season even more magical. It all starts Saturday night at 7:07. Let's Go Black and Gold!!
Both teams came out strong, with Toronto notching a PP tally from Grabovski to get the scoring started. Milan Lucic added a PP goal of his own to tie the game in a fast paced first which saw the Bruins have a slight edge in possession and shots, 17-16. Tim Thomas was once again a major factor, in the process adding to a career best win streak at 9 in a row. David Krejci opened the second period scoring with his fourth of the year. Joffrey Lupul tied it up a few minutes later before a Zdeno Chara put the Bruins ahead for good who has been red hot as of late with his 5th of the year. Three third period goals by the Bruins, Pouliot(3), Lucic(10) second of the night, and Marchand(9) added an empty netter, finished off the Maple Leafs in front of a sellout crowd. The score was not completely indicitive of the type of game played. It was a fast, physical, and even game up until about halfway through the third period, where not many teams can play with the Bruins. It definitely had a playoff feel to it, and it think it is safe to say Boston wants no part of helping Kessel with any success as they seem to have his number pretty well dialed up. Boston will be home at the Garden for the second half of this home and home Saturday night. The Leafs will want to extract some revenge, and once again the division lead will be up for grabs. Phaneuf should be a bit fired up due to some late game physicality he came out on the short end of, and I would not be surprised to see Colton Orr sitting on the visitors side. I expect another physical matchup with these two original six franchises.
With that, November is gone and this team will need to continue their hot streak if they want to stay in a playoff spot. The division lead looks to continue changing hands due to whoever has a night off, and the eight Eastern Conference playoff spots are separated by a measly 6 points, with 9,10,and 11 less than 13. December has not started off to bad though. We woke up this morning and learned that Timmy has been named the NHL first star for the entire month of November. To go along with that David Krejci has been inked to a three year extension. The news conference will be held at 1:00pm on NESN. I think this is a great move by Cam and Peter. There have been a lot of trade rumors lately involving David due to his slow start. It was my opinion that he was a franchise player and someone to continue to build your team around. Apparently management felt the same, and maybe the security of the contract will take some pressure off of 46 and he will get back to his normal level of play. For everyone keeping track, that is a huge UFA taken off the to do list come the off season. Big decisions are still to be made with Rask, Marchand, Lucic, and Horton set to come off the books. Happy Holidays and here's to the boys making this holiday season even more magical. It all starts Saturday night at 7:07. Let's Go Black and Gold!!
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Bruins Grind, Streak Up To Ten
I hope the Sabres organization and their fans had their note pads out last night, because that is what a real team does. Stand up for each other, go to battle for each other, and grind out a win for each other. The Bruins are not the most offensively talented team in the league, but their tight knit, vetern lead, non stop heart team mentality is what carries them through. Lucic's first shift showed everyone why there was no retaliation last week. Gaustad has talked for two weeks about how he was dissapointed in Buffalo's response and in particular in himself. He is a stand up guy and did what he had to, but ultimately just took a bullet for his team because Lucic wiped the ice with him. I understand the Sabres aren't built for that type of game, but I wondered what the point was. If not for some very obvious home cooking penalty calls, that fight could have served as great momentum for the streaking Bruins. A bit later in the period there was a scrum, 5 white sweaters coming to the aid of one of their guys. Chara picked a great time to drop the mitts and about 25 seconds later dropped Regeher. Somehow, the Bruins end up short handed. Not to be outdone, Andrew Ference made sure everyone knew there would be no fly bys in Timmy's crease. He grabbed Stafford on his second offense and took him to the end boards. I could see on my HDTV the white in Staffords Knuckles as he held on for dear life not letting Ference uncork his hands and make red cross donation via Staffords face. That is what a team does. That is why the Big Bad Bruins are who they are. That is why they are the defending Stanley Cup Champions. Oh yea, there was a pretty good game amidst those storylines as well.
Boston twice rallied from 2 goal defecits. Two first period power play goals by Buffalo put the Bruins in a huge hole, especially given the way the officiating was looking. Although I do have to say, it straightened out after the first period to almost even. Tyler Seguin scorched a power play goal of his own about 4 minutes into the second period, cutting the Sabres lead in half. About 7 minutes later, TJ Brennen put the Sabres back up by two with his first career point/goal. It was easy to see why the Sabres organizaton was high on him. He is a very quick player with a big shot. At the 16 minute mark, Brad Marchand was the victim of a big counter hit by Thomas Vanek, and was jeered by the Sabres bench. Marshy picked himself off the ice, fixed his helmet, found the puck on his stick and deposited it top shelf past Enroth, immediately jabbing back at the muted Sabres bench. Boston again cut the lead to one now heading to the 3rd period. The Bruins came out hard in their period, still head and shoulders above any other team in 3rd at +21, and some excellent puck posession rewarded the boys. On the PP, Horton and Krejci found themselves with decent scoring chances but both opted to make a pass to find something better. That led to a slot pass to Milan Lucic who spotted Chara alone between the dots and unselfishly set him up for the tying goal. Back and forth they went for the next 16 minutes trading chances and hits, but neither Enroth or Thomas wanted to give points away. End of regulation, tied 3-3.
A minute plus of 4 on 3 hockey for Buffalo did not equate to anything. Boston's PK did great and killed off the penalty. The last 4 minutes went by without any real good scoring chances for either team. It took 5 rounds of great goaltending before we found a winner. Thomas and Enroth went back and forth shutting the door on each attempt they faced. Emerging from the dog house at center ice was Benoit Pouliot. He snaked through the zone with speed and beat Enroth glove side giving Boston 2 points, sole posession of first place and even possibly keeping himself from the sky box for the next few games. It was a grind of a game and both teams played great but someone had to lose. Thankfully it was the Sabres. That team will be around all year and that could have really served as a momentum game for them, feeling like they stood up for each other and beat the champs. Boston found a way to win another and pushed their streak to double digits.
Next on the docket is a day after Thanksgiving matinee with the always top notch Detroit Red Wings. The black and gold will return home to the TD garden and play the first of back to back games. Detroit is playing pretty well right now as well, going 7-3 in their last 10 games. Sitting at 25 points, the Red Wings have considered this a mediocre start, which should speak volumes to the talent this team has and expects to maintain year in and year out. They have 2 players on their backend who will be game time decisions and are still trying to find the right combinations on the blue line since the retirement of Brian Rafalski last year. They have a very solid goaltender, but I think the Bruins can use their speed and heavy forecheck to put a lot of rubber on the net. This sure will be a measuring stick game and all eyes in the NHL will be watching this "Thanksgiving Showdown" on national television. Puck drops at 1:07. Let's keep the streak alive. Go Black and Gold!
I hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving with their loved ones!
Boston twice rallied from 2 goal defecits. Two first period power play goals by Buffalo put the Bruins in a huge hole, especially given the way the officiating was looking. Although I do have to say, it straightened out after the first period to almost even. Tyler Seguin scorched a power play goal of his own about 4 minutes into the second period, cutting the Sabres lead in half. About 7 minutes later, TJ Brennen put the Sabres back up by two with his first career point/goal. It was easy to see why the Sabres organizaton was high on him. He is a very quick player with a big shot. At the 16 minute mark, Brad Marchand was the victim of a big counter hit by Thomas Vanek, and was jeered by the Sabres bench. Marshy picked himself off the ice, fixed his helmet, found the puck on his stick and deposited it top shelf past Enroth, immediately jabbing back at the muted Sabres bench. Boston again cut the lead to one now heading to the 3rd period. The Bruins came out hard in their period, still head and shoulders above any other team in 3rd at +21, and some excellent puck posession rewarded the boys. On the PP, Horton and Krejci found themselves with decent scoring chances but both opted to make a pass to find something better. That led to a slot pass to Milan Lucic who spotted Chara alone between the dots and unselfishly set him up for the tying goal. Back and forth they went for the next 16 minutes trading chances and hits, but neither Enroth or Thomas wanted to give points away. End of regulation, tied 3-3.
A minute plus of 4 on 3 hockey for Buffalo did not equate to anything. Boston's PK did great and killed off the penalty. The last 4 minutes went by without any real good scoring chances for either team. It took 5 rounds of great goaltending before we found a winner. Thomas and Enroth went back and forth shutting the door on each attempt they faced. Emerging from the dog house at center ice was Benoit Pouliot. He snaked through the zone with speed and beat Enroth glove side giving Boston 2 points, sole posession of first place and even possibly keeping himself from the sky box for the next few games. It was a grind of a game and both teams played great but someone had to lose. Thankfully it was the Sabres. That team will be around all year and that could have really served as a momentum game for them, feeling like they stood up for each other and beat the champs. Boston found a way to win another and pushed their streak to double digits.
Next on the docket is a day after Thanksgiving matinee with the always top notch Detroit Red Wings. The black and gold will return home to the TD garden and play the first of back to back games. Detroit is playing pretty well right now as well, going 7-3 in their last 10 games. Sitting at 25 points, the Red Wings have considered this a mediocre start, which should speak volumes to the talent this team has and expects to maintain year in and year out. They have 2 players on their backend who will be game time decisions and are still trying to find the right combinations on the blue line since the retirement of Brian Rafalski last year. They have a very solid goaltender, but I think the Bruins can use their speed and heavy forecheck to put a lot of rubber on the net. This sure will be a measuring stick game and all eyes in the NHL will be watching this "Thanksgiving Showdown" on national television. Puck drops at 1:07. Let's keep the streak alive. Go Black and Gold!
I hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving with their loved ones!
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Timmy Steals One, Streak At 9
Back to back shutouts. Over 222 straight minutes of scoreless play on the road. The reigning Vezina and Conn Smythe winner, and "Best Goalie On Earth" (Thank you Jack Edwards) looks like he has regained his magical form from last year. The Bruins weathered the storm early and capitilized on the only real mistake by the Habs at the Bell Centre Monday night. At 15:41 Andrew Ference potted his second of the year after some nifty back to back passes by Kelly and Peverley. Peverley found a wide open Ference crashing to the slot and a blown assignment by Yanick Weber gave the B's the 1-0 lead. Tim Thomas took care of the rest. He was steller, and the Bruins needed him to be. Despite doing a pretty decent job of keeping Montreal's scoring chances to the outside and not giving up a lot of real good opportunities, the black and gold were still heavily outshot 33-18. Couple that with a night of bad penalties, mostly by Benoit Pouliot who picked up a hooking and double minor for high sticking on PK Swan Dive, and theres a recipe for disaster against the quick puck moving Canadiens. A very good defensive zone game and some great shot blocking helped out a lot, but Montreal certainly carried the play and had some really good shifts in the offensive zone. A win is a win, and Boston has found a way to grind some of them out, but I do not think there is anyone who watched that game that could say the B's didnt steal that one. Carey Price had a very good game as well, figuring into the 3rd star spot for the evening. While his work load appeared to be less than Thomas's, he had to make some very nice saves in order to keep Montreal in it. With the win Boston moved themselves into 1st place in the Northeast Division and up to second in the Eastern Conference.
With what has become the most anticipated game of the year for Bruins fans, Wednesday night the boys meet up with Buffalo. Since "the hit heard round the world" and the lack of response, there has been a lot of talk about how the Sabres will extract their retribution. While I can say I do not believe Lucic will have a problem with either of the two in Buffalo who are willing to go, McCormick and Gaustaud, I am not sure what is going to happen. Lucic has been much less willing to drop the gloves since he has become an integral part of this offense and has been told by management to limit the occurences. That being said, I think if challenged, he has to answer the bell. In no way shape or form am I comparing his "hit" on Ryan Miller to the brutal cheapshot by Matt Cooke on Marc Savard, but when Cooke came back to Boston Shawn Thornton challenged him and he dropped the mitts. He is not in Thorty's league, not even in his wildest most outrageous dreams. But he answered for what he did. I think Milan will have to do that. I do not know who will be in net for the black and gold, but it really doesnt matter fom this aspect. If anyone, anyone, even gets what the Bruins deem to be too close to their goalie, the Bruins will clean them out. There will be a heightened level of security in our crease Wednesday night, and that doesnt boed well for the Sabres. The black and gold cannot lose sight of whats most important, and right after having each others backs are those 2 points. The two teams are tied with 24 points at the top of the division. Let the Sabres worry about retribution and let the Bruins worry about staying safe, avoiding injury, and being alone at the pinnacle. Lets hope for an entertaining game. Puck drops at 7:07 and the B's will be looking for a double digit streak. Go Black And Gold!
With what has become the most anticipated game of the year for Bruins fans, Wednesday night the boys meet up with Buffalo. Since "the hit heard round the world" and the lack of response, there has been a lot of talk about how the Sabres will extract their retribution. While I can say I do not believe Lucic will have a problem with either of the two in Buffalo who are willing to go, McCormick and Gaustaud, I am not sure what is going to happen. Lucic has been much less willing to drop the gloves since he has become an integral part of this offense and has been told by management to limit the occurences. That being said, I think if challenged, he has to answer the bell. In no way shape or form am I comparing his "hit" on Ryan Miller to the brutal cheapshot by Matt Cooke on Marc Savard, but when Cooke came back to Boston Shawn Thornton challenged him and he dropped the mitts. He is not in Thorty's league, not even in his wildest most outrageous dreams. But he answered for what he did. I think Milan will have to do that. I do not know who will be in net for the black and gold, but it really doesnt matter fom this aspect. If anyone, anyone, even gets what the Bruins deem to be too close to their goalie, the Bruins will clean them out. There will be a heightened level of security in our crease Wednesday night, and that doesnt boed well for the Sabres. The black and gold cannot lose sight of whats most important, and right after having each others backs are those 2 points. The two teams are tied with 24 points at the top of the division. Let the Sabres worry about retribution and let the Bruins worry about staying safe, avoiding injury, and being alone at the pinnacle. Lets hope for an entertaining game. Puck drops at 7:07 and the B's will be looking for a double digit streak. Go Black And Gold!
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Ugly 7's
In what was unarguably the ugliest, rustiest, lack of passion game of the year, the Bruins were taken all the way to round 3 of the shootout before putting the lowly Blue Jackets away. A 2nd period power play goal by Derek MacKenzie put Columbus up 1-0. A minute a half later the black and gold answered with a shot by Adam MacQuaid, who is credited with the goal as of right now. It appeared to redirect off of Rich Peverley, but regardless, it was all knotted up at 1. A post ringing, chance trading 3rd ensued but proved to do nothing on the score board. Columbus took a penalty about a minute into OT, and the Bruins power play looked great. The puck was moving well around the ice and the boys were being patient and waiting for lanes but firing on net when open. Still, the Bruins could not dent the twine and quickly took a penalty of their own. Andrew Ference was called for boarding, although the referee was not looking and just saw a player on the ice, and Columbus kept steady pressure for the final minute. End of regulation 1-1. Tyler Seguin was blanked but Peverley and Krejci scored setting the table for Tuukka Time. The games undeniable first star, and really only bright spot, came up huge all game and once again in the shootout. Antoine Vermette came up ice and actually made a really nice move but Tuukka stacked his pads and shut the door. The Bruins surrendered the first road point of the year to the Blue Jackets, but picked up 2 for themselves and upped the winning streak to 7 games. It appears that this was the trap game we were afraid of. The good news is it is over, and the black and gold found a way to grind one out. If Nashville can hold on against Toronto and Edmonton can overcome an early two goal lead by Ottawa, the Bruins will wake up tomorrow in 8th place, the final playoff spot.
Next on tap is Saturday night when the Bruins start a 3 game road trip on Long Island. As you saw last week, the Islanders are a desperate, young, fast, and talented team. They are very capable of giving the Bruins fits with their high octane energy. They are currently sitting in last place and that certainly sets up another trap. The Bruins will need to much better than they were tonight if they wish the leave the island with 8 in a row. I think Rask will be in net and hopefully our offense will produce and give this guy some support. He stood on his head tonight and I am sure he would love another 6 goal effort from the B's. Lets Go Black and Gold!
Next on tap is Saturday night when the Bruins start a 3 game road trip on Long Island. As you saw last week, the Islanders are a desperate, young, fast, and talented team. They are very capable of giving the Bruins fits with their high octane energy. They are currently sitting in last place and that certainly sets up another trap. The Bruins will need to much better than they were tonight if they wish the leave the island with 8 in a row. I think Rask will be in net and hopefully our offense will produce and give this guy some support. He stood on his head tonight and I am sure he would love another 6 goal effort from the B's. Lets Go Black and Gold!
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Bruins Battle, Late Heroics Make It 6 Straight
Well, it was not the usual suspects last night. With the exception of a Marchand goal, the role players were the story of this game. A back and forth battle with some huge hits and a lot of good solid body to body contact had the New Jersey Devils and Boston Bruins trading momentum back and forth all night. Back to back bad penalties had the B's trying to kill off a 5 on 3 when David Clarkson deposited one to give the Devils the lead. 4:06 later, which would proove to be the longest lead time of the evening until late in the 3rd, Gregory Campbell was working his forecheck magic, stealing the puck off of Hedburg's stick and directing to the front of the net where a crashing Chris Kelly had some wide open twine to shoot at. That would be it on the scoreboard until the 3rd period.
Marchand was back on the ice after taking two bad penalties, being benched for about half of the second, and really having an all around sub par 2 periods. But 0:06 into the 3rd off of a set play from the faceoff where the wing curls to the boards but then back to the center of the ice (see Milan Lucic against Toronto as well) and Chara found him sending him in alone and he beat hedburg stick side. For anyone who may be interested that is tied for the 6th fastest goal to start a period. 4 seconds is the record, but I can not figure out how they did that back in 1957. Anyway, it was a beautiful play, but the momentum would not last very long. 2:02 seconds later, a centering attempt somehow perfectly found the tape of Palmieri for another Devils goal. Not to be outdone, only a minute and a half later, more of Campbells hard work was on display as he worked the corner, passed back to Caron who made a magnificant touch pass to Shawn Thornton for his first of the year. 3 minutes later it was Palmieri again on wrister fromt he slot. Boston had many more scoring chances in the 3rd, including 2 point blank shots by Horton, but they could not light the lamp. That was until 16:59 when Benoit Pouliot jumped on a loose puck, muffed the shot, but somehow got enough of it to get by the Devils net minder. New Jersey pulled the goalie with a minute left and put in a lot of hard work. There were some anxious moments for us Bruins fan, but ultimately the boys held on for a hard fought, well earned victory.
I think this type of game is exactly what the Bruins needed. Winning has come semi easy over the last 5 games, and once they got up on a team their opponents would tuck tail and leave. Well Jersey did not do that. They went punch for punch with the black and gold and these type of games can certainly be character builders and can show the "bounce-back-ability" of a team. This is a veteren team with a lot of experience and it is great to come out on the winning end of these battles.
Looking at the calender, the Bruins have a great opportunity this month with what is statistically a weak schedule. Thursday the last place Blue Jackets come to town. At 3-13-1, 0-7 on the road, they will be a hungry team looking to make a statement and gain some respect while trying to take out the defending champs. If Boston sleeps on this team it will be a long night. They have one of the best players in the NHL in Rick Nash and picked up Jeff Carter this offseason as well. The boys then play the Eastern Conferences last place team, The New York Islanders. 4-8-3 but do not let the record fool you, this team is young and fast and historically gives the Bruins trouble. Then Montreal, who sit behind them in the standings, but we all know the scoop with Montreal, standings mean nothing. WARNING WARNING next Wednesday up to Buffalo we go. I am sure Lindy Ruff will have the smurfs ready for battle, and while I fully expect a response from them, I am fairly confident that they wont be stupid enough to try to run Timmy. If Tukkaa is in net, I hope they try, because Tukkaa is a mad man. Lucic has handled Mccormick before, as has Thornton, Campbell, McQauid (see a pattern?) and Paul Gaustaud is a joke. He was on the ice, he did nothing, and he cannot fight anyway. This game means a lot though, and the two points are way more important. Let Buffalo think about revenge and let Boston go out and get 2. The Sabres are 2nd in the east, and though they have played more games than the Bruins, it is a divisional game the black and gold need. Follow that game up with a day after Thanksgiving measuring stick with the Red Wings. A playoff mainstay from the west, Detroit is always a good one. Then November finishes with the Jets and the Leafs. The Jets are second to last, the Leafs are playing very good hockey right now. The Bruins are staring a great opportunity in the face. They have already made the jump from 17th to 9th in 5 games. If they continue to play the brand of hockey they are playing now, they should be back on track to where we thought they would be. Next test is Thursday against the Blue Jackets. Do not go through the motions and I think Boston should be ok. GO Black and Gold!
Marchand was back on the ice after taking two bad penalties, being benched for about half of the second, and really having an all around sub par 2 periods. But 0:06 into the 3rd off of a set play from the faceoff where the wing curls to the boards but then back to the center of the ice (see Milan Lucic against Toronto as well) and Chara found him sending him in alone and he beat hedburg stick side. For anyone who may be interested that is tied for the 6th fastest goal to start a period. 4 seconds is the record, but I can not figure out how they did that back in 1957. Anyway, it was a beautiful play, but the momentum would not last very long. 2:02 seconds later, a centering attempt somehow perfectly found the tape of Palmieri for another Devils goal. Not to be outdone, only a minute and a half later, more of Campbells hard work was on display as he worked the corner, passed back to Caron who made a magnificant touch pass to Shawn Thornton for his first of the year. 3 minutes later it was Palmieri again on wrister fromt he slot. Boston had many more scoring chances in the 3rd, including 2 point blank shots by Horton, but they could not light the lamp. That was until 16:59 when Benoit Pouliot jumped on a loose puck, muffed the shot, but somehow got enough of it to get by the Devils net minder. New Jersey pulled the goalie with a minute left and put in a lot of hard work. There were some anxious moments for us Bruins fan, but ultimately the boys held on for a hard fought, well earned victory.
I think this type of game is exactly what the Bruins needed. Winning has come semi easy over the last 5 games, and once they got up on a team their opponents would tuck tail and leave. Well Jersey did not do that. They went punch for punch with the black and gold and these type of games can certainly be character builders and can show the "bounce-back-ability" of a team. This is a veteren team with a lot of experience and it is great to come out on the winning end of these battles.
Looking at the calender, the Bruins have a great opportunity this month with what is statistically a weak schedule. Thursday the last place Blue Jackets come to town. At 3-13-1, 0-7 on the road, they will be a hungry team looking to make a statement and gain some respect while trying to take out the defending champs. If Boston sleeps on this team it will be a long night. They have one of the best players in the NHL in Rick Nash and picked up Jeff Carter this offseason as well. The boys then play the Eastern Conferences last place team, The New York Islanders. 4-8-3 but do not let the record fool you, this team is young and fast and historically gives the Bruins trouble. Then Montreal, who sit behind them in the standings, but we all know the scoop with Montreal, standings mean nothing. WARNING WARNING next Wednesday up to Buffalo we go. I am sure Lindy Ruff will have the smurfs ready for battle, and while I fully expect a response from them, I am fairly confident that they wont be stupid enough to try to run Timmy. If Tukkaa is in net, I hope they try, because Tukkaa is a mad man. Lucic has handled Mccormick before, as has Thornton, Campbell, McQauid (see a pattern?) and Paul Gaustaud is a joke. He was on the ice, he did nothing, and he cannot fight anyway. This game means a lot though, and the two points are way more important. Let Buffalo think about revenge and let Boston go out and get 2. The Sabres are 2nd in the east, and though they have played more games than the Bruins, it is a divisional game the black and gold need. Follow that game up with a day after Thanksgiving measuring stick with the Red Wings. A playoff mainstay from the west, Detroit is always a good one. Then November finishes with the Jets and the Leafs. The Jets are second to last, the Leafs are playing very good hockey right now. The Bruins are staring a great opportunity in the face. They have already made the jump from 17th to 9th in 5 games. If they continue to play the brand of hockey they are playing now, they should be back on track to where we thought they would be. Next test is Thursday against the Blue Jackets. Do not go through the motions and I think Boston should be ok. GO Black and Gold!
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Bruins Throttle Sabres, Continue Dominance
The black and gold continued their winning ways Saturday night against division rival Buffalo Sabres. They won this chippy affair 6-1, bringing the score line of the last 5 games to 30-10. After a very sluggish start to the game, which saw Thomas "The Bruin Killer" Vaneck put in another goal off Timmy's back, the boys got the wake up call they needed. Milan Lucic blocked a shot along the wall and was sprung for a breakaway. He pushed the pucked too far and barreled down the ice to try to capitilize on the opportunity. When he picked his head up, he saw Ryan Miller way out of his net, and the steam roll was on. Millers helmet went flying, he took a middle school type stick swing at Lucic, I think I saw a few tears, and then......that was it. The Sabres did not do anything. They did not stand up for their goalie, which is sacreligious in hockey by the way. From that point on the Bruins were the aggressors, the agitators, the bullys. Use any term you would like they all break down the same, the Bruins put it on Buffalo and they put it on thick. On what is unarguably the hottest line in the NHL, Bergy, Segs, and Marshy were on fire once again tonight. Seguin and Marchand both had 3 point nights with Bergeron adding a helper and once again doing all the things that do not show up in the boxscore. When you combine that lines production over the last 5 games with the production of the first line you are looking at an amazing 41 points in 5 games.
With Andrew Ference still sidelined, the Bruins have had the other 5 in the normal rotation step up and play huge minutes. We have seen pairings we are not used to seeing. Boychuk and McQuaid have both spend considerable time on their off hand sides. They have all been very responsible and the layers they provide with the goaltending the Bruins have, it is not wonder they are playing such great hockey. Maybe their biggest cleanup area has been their play in the neutral zone. With a defense first team, one of the glaring problems would be poor neutral zone play, which we saw the first 8 games. This team has great backchecking forwards who rotate on defenseman pinches and do not miss a beat. Lets hope Andy can get back int he lineup soon. Speaking of back in the lineup, how good is Rich Peverley? Not only did he burn Tyler Myers and then make Miller look silly on a gorgeous 5 hole tally, but he played a really solid game. It must be the new moustache! The Bruins went 0-4 on the power play tonight, but once again were aggressive on the PK and only allowed 4 shots and 1 goal on 4 kills. The B's still have to find a way to come out strong for games and after intermissions. Catch up hockey is losing hockey as Brick likes to say.
Tuesday night the boys head down to Jersey to play the somewhat surprising Devils. Sitting at 8-6-1, 1 point ahead of the Bruins, and coming off a home and home split with the Washington Capitals, the Devils will look to get back to their winning ways. However, with the exception of Patrik Elias, this team is grossly under performing. Kovakchuk missed the home and home and will be a game time decision. Always a dangerous player, and one of the highest paid in the NHL, Illya has only managed 2 goals on 40 shots, and is playing at a plus/minus -4 on the season. Johan Hedburg seems to be taking the reigns from future Hall of Famer Martin Brodeur as he has won 3 times more games so far this year. New Jersey is a team that cannot be slept on, although every time we play them I feel like falling asleep. They are one of the most boring teams to watch but seem to always find a way to win games against Boston 1-0. Lets hope this time is different. Puck drops at 7:00 Tuesday night.
With Andrew Ference still sidelined, the Bruins have had the other 5 in the normal rotation step up and play huge minutes. We have seen pairings we are not used to seeing. Boychuk and McQuaid have both spend considerable time on their off hand sides. They have all been very responsible and the layers they provide with the goaltending the Bruins have, it is not wonder they are playing such great hockey. Maybe their biggest cleanup area has been their play in the neutral zone. With a defense first team, one of the glaring problems would be poor neutral zone play, which we saw the first 8 games. This team has great backchecking forwards who rotate on defenseman pinches and do not miss a beat. Lets hope Andy can get back int he lineup soon. Speaking of back in the lineup, how good is Rich Peverley? Not only did he burn Tyler Myers and then make Miller look silly on a gorgeous 5 hole tally, but he played a really solid game. It must be the new moustache! The Bruins went 0-4 on the power play tonight, but once again were aggressive on the PK and only allowed 4 shots and 1 goal on 4 kills. The B's still have to find a way to come out strong for games and after intermissions. Catch up hockey is losing hockey as Brick likes to say.
Tuesday night the boys head down to Jersey to play the somewhat surprising Devils. Sitting at 8-6-1, 1 point ahead of the Bruins, and coming off a home and home split with the Washington Capitals, the Devils will look to get back to their winning ways. However, with the exception of Patrik Elias, this team is grossly under performing. Kovakchuk missed the home and home and will be a game time decision. Always a dangerous player, and one of the highest paid in the NHL, Illya has only managed 2 goals on 40 shots, and is playing at a plus/minus -4 on the season. Johan Hedburg seems to be taking the reigns from future Hall of Famer Martin Brodeur as he has won 3 times more games so far this year. New Jersey is a team that cannot be slept on, although every time we play them I feel like falling asleep. They are one of the most boring teams to watch but seem to always find a way to win games against Boston 1-0. Lets hope this time is different. Puck drops at 7:00 Tuesday night.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Red Hot B's Win 4th In A Row
Movember is off to a great start, and it needed to be. As the calendar turned, the Bruins were sitting in dead last, and panic was flowing over Bruins nation. But with the turning of the page came a change from within the Bruins. Staring at 11 games within 22 days, the Bruins knew that if they were going to turn this around and make a run, it had to be this month. They have since outscored their opponents a combined 24 to 8. With the exception of the Islanders, the teams have been pretty good competition as well. The surprising Senators, the then first place Maple Leafs, and tonight, the NHL's hottest team came to town, the Edmonton Oilers. While it was fun to watch Nugent-Hopkins and Hall skate around the ice, and watch the future hall of famer Ryan Smyth net two, it was better to watch the Bruins moving like a well oiled machine. The Oilers will certainly be a team to be reckoned with in the future, but outside of the last 10 minutes of period one, they were completely outmatched. The Bruins won most of the one on one battles, were very responsible and executed in all three zones. Since the Krejci-Horton-Lucic line has been reunited, we have witnessed an awakening. In the last four games that line has powered up 19 pts. Lucic- 5 goals 2 assists. Horton 2 goals 3 assists. Krejci 2 goals 5 assists. Lucic is moving his feet and getting in front of the net. Krejci has been his usual self, displaying a great mix of speed and control, and though Horton has said he doesn't feel like himself yet, (not due to the concussion, just a timing thing) he has been playing better with each game as well.
In case there was any doubt before, start collecting your Tyler Seguin memorabilia. This kid is something special and the difference in his game from last year to this year is quite remarkable. You can see the hard work he has put in by bulking up 20 lbs or so and can tell he spent a lot of time under the tutelage of guys like Recchi and Bergeron. He also has 7 points over the last 4 games including a hat trick against Toronto, prompting the always awesome "Thank You Kessel" chants. His speed is killer, his passing is always tape to tape, he shoots darts, and he is quite crafty. I look forward so much to being able to watch him for many years to come.
Not enough can be said about the role players on this team as well. It was because of these guys that we had success last year and they will be looked to again. Shawn Thornton does not show up in the box score very often, but anyone who follows this team and watches these games knows he is the heartbeat. His line starts almost every game, they go out at very vulnerable times and when the ice needs to be policed, and when the black and gold need to be woken up, Thorty grabs a partner and lights a fire. He is a master at dropping the mits at the right time, including 4 games in a row. Guys like Greg Campbell, Rich Peverley and Daniel Paille block shots, get to dirty areas and sacrifice the body. Peverley is still currently sidelined and Paille had successful nose surgery yesterday to repair what was done by a puck in the face. Two more prime examples of what it means to be a Boston Bruin. Blue collar lunch pail team that out grinds and out hustles the opponent. That is exactly what we have seen over the last few games, and it is the only style that will continue to lend them success.
Saturday night the Northeast division rival Buffalo Sabres come to town. American standout Ryan Miller will most likely be between the pipes, and that is not always a bad thing for the Bruins. They have historically done alright against him. Buffalo always bring a gritty energy to the game and have some definite skill to match. Witht he same number of games played, the Sabres sit 4 points ahead of the B's and this will prove to be another pivitol game for the boys. Lets Go Black and Gold!!
In case there was any doubt before, start collecting your Tyler Seguin memorabilia. This kid is something special and the difference in his game from last year to this year is quite remarkable. You can see the hard work he has put in by bulking up 20 lbs or so and can tell he spent a lot of time under the tutelage of guys like Recchi and Bergeron. He also has 7 points over the last 4 games including a hat trick against Toronto, prompting the always awesome "Thank You Kessel" chants. His speed is killer, his passing is always tape to tape, he shoots darts, and he is quite crafty. I look forward so much to being able to watch him for many years to come.
Not enough can be said about the role players on this team as well. It was because of these guys that we had success last year and they will be looked to again. Shawn Thornton does not show up in the box score very often, but anyone who follows this team and watches these games knows he is the heartbeat. His line starts almost every game, they go out at very vulnerable times and when the ice needs to be policed, and when the black and gold need to be woken up, Thorty grabs a partner and lights a fire. He is a master at dropping the mits at the right time, including 4 games in a row. Guys like Greg Campbell, Rich Peverley and Daniel Paille block shots, get to dirty areas and sacrifice the body. Peverley is still currently sidelined and Paille had successful nose surgery yesterday to repair what was done by a puck in the face. Two more prime examples of what it means to be a Boston Bruin. Blue collar lunch pail team that out grinds and out hustles the opponent. That is exactly what we have seen over the last few games, and it is the only style that will continue to lend them success.
Saturday night the Northeast division rival Buffalo Sabres come to town. American standout Ryan Miller will most likely be between the pipes, and that is not always a bad thing for the Bruins. They have historically done alright against him. Buffalo always bring a gritty energy to the game and have some definite skill to match. Witht he same number of games played, the Sabres sit 4 points ahead of the B's and this will prove to be another pivitol game for the boys. Lets Go Black and Gold!!
Thursday, October 27, 2011
B's Drop First Of Home And Home With Habs
Well, tonight was certainly not comforting. It was perplexing, frustrating and a definite setback from where this team needed to go. I watched the first period and said, "This team always comes out flat, tonight they come out roaring and look primed for a 60 minute effort." Then the next two periods are, well, are just about as bad as it could get. The Bruins get outshot 19-8 in the second, including giving up the tying goal to Eric Cole. Coming out for the third, and what has been this team's best period over the last few seasons, I was thinking that the boys had the Habs where they wanted them. Then, the third ends up being worse than the second. It felt like the puck was in Boston's end for all but 3 minutes of that period. The Bruins surrendered the go ahead and game winning goal to Thomas Plekanec. In the game, Carey Price made an easy 29 saves on 30 shots. The lone goal he surrendered was on a freak play. Off of a faceoff, Bergeron's stick broke, he fell face first on the ice. Plekanec won the faceoff clean back and the puck went right through Price's wickets. Goalies usually stop what they can see and I cannot remember a single play in the second or third where the Bruins set up offense and actually had a body parked in front of the net. Tim Thomas made 33 saves on 35 shots.
The Bruins were awful in the neutral and defensive zones tonight. I am all for believing in Claude's system, but this D to D stuff does not work against a team with sustained forecheck. Montreal had a two man forecheck all night, and constantly frustrated the Bruins, forcing errors and a turnovers. When they managed to get the puck into the neutral zone, they could not gain entry to the offensive zone. When they attempted to chip and chase, the puck would be knocked down and pushed out by Montreal. Instead of playing to the boards and gaining ice with the puck, the B's were retreating back to their end. The powerplay looked awful again, going 0-6. There was no movement, no consistent cycling and only mustered 6 shots. With both teams sitting in the basement of the east, the two points were going to be huge tonight. Unfortunately, one team played like they did not want to be in last and one did not. So there you go Boston, defending champs to basement dwellers. Only 9 games in, I get it, but past history will tell us bad starts usually equal bad endings. I thought this series would wake them up, but I just do not know what it will take at this point.
Positives.......ok give me a second, let me think. Well, it was fun to see PK Swimteam with his gloves off, that is without someone else ripping them off. I guess I was wrong, they are not glued on. It was nice to see Marchand showing emotion and actually handled himself quite well in a very spirited scrap. Shawn Thornton was his usual energizing self with some very well timed exciting shifts. I am tired of Shawn only getting 7 minutes a night, and Campbell and Pouliot coming in around 8 minutes. I do not care to watch the rest of the guys log 15-20 minutes of unspirited time. Atleast when that 4th line is out there they show they care and show us they cherish and want their ice time. Another matchup Saturday night at the Bell Centre is the last positive I can muster up. This is the best rivalry in sports, and though I am one helluva frustrated fan, I love this team and love every time I get to watch a game against the Habs. Maybe being officially in the cellar will wake the black and gold up. Or maybe just another game against the frogs will do it. At this point I do not care what it takes, just let me see those big bad bruins I love to watch. See you Saturday Montreal. I hope you woke a sleeping bear!
The Bruins were awful in the neutral and defensive zones tonight. I am all for believing in Claude's system, but this D to D stuff does not work against a team with sustained forecheck. Montreal had a two man forecheck all night, and constantly frustrated the Bruins, forcing errors and a turnovers. When they managed to get the puck into the neutral zone, they could not gain entry to the offensive zone. When they attempted to chip and chase, the puck would be knocked down and pushed out by Montreal. Instead of playing to the boards and gaining ice with the puck, the B's were retreating back to their end. The powerplay looked awful again, going 0-6. There was no movement, no consistent cycling and only mustered 6 shots. With both teams sitting in the basement of the east, the two points were going to be huge tonight. Unfortunately, one team played like they did not want to be in last and one did not. So there you go Boston, defending champs to basement dwellers. Only 9 games in, I get it, but past history will tell us bad starts usually equal bad endings. I thought this series would wake them up, but I just do not know what it will take at this point.
Positives.......ok give me a second, let me think. Well, it was fun to see PK Swimteam with his gloves off, that is without someone else ripping them off. I guess I was wrong, they are not glued on. It was nice to see Marchand showing emotion and actually handled himself quite well in a very spirited scrap. Shawn Thornton was his usual energizing self with some very well timed exciting shifts. I am tired of Shawn only getting 7 minutes a night, and Campbell and Pouliot coming in around 8 minutes. I do not care to watch the rest of the guys log 15-20 minutes of unspirited time. Atleast when that 4th line is out there they show they care and show us they cherish and want their ice time. Another matchup Saturday night at the Bell Centre is the last positive I can muster up. This is the best rivalry in sports, and though I am one helluva frustrated fan, I love this team and love every time I get to watch a game against the Habs. Maybe being officially in the cellar will wake the black and gold up. Or maybe just another game against the frogs will do it. At this point I do not care what it takes, just let me see those big bad bruins I love to watch. See you Saturday Montreal. I hope you woke a sleeping bear!
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Slow Start Hampers B's
Last season the Boston Bruins were the number 1 NHL team in the 3rd period when it came to goal differential. In fact, there was not a team within 10 goals of what they produced in the final frame. The problem was that they needed 3rd periods of that nature to overcome the sluggish start to a large percentage of their contests. Well Saturday, I felt like I was watching one of last years games all over again. They came out flat, legs were not moving, passes were not crisp, and 1:12 in, Joe Pavelski deposited the puck glove side high over Tim Thomas. End of period 1, 1-0 Sharks. 2nd period begins and the Bruins come out flat, legs were not moving, passes not crisp and 8:54 in, another goal by the Sharks. (see a patern?) Shawn Thorton got the boys going with a very spirited scrap against an always game James Vandermeer, and for the majority of the first two periods, the Bruins were not playing all that bad. After the slow starts, the Bruins were outshooting, outhitting, out possessing, out chancing, and out playing the Sharks. End of period 2, Sharks still up 2-0. Then they come out for the 3rd and looked like a completely different team. I am not sure what their 3rd period routine is, or if after two Claude has finally had enough. Whatever they are doing though, they need to start doing it 40 minutes earlier. They outshot the Sharks 18-8 in the 3rd and more than doubled their scoring chances, including 2 off the posts in the. It felt like they only time the puck was in our defensive end was for the 30 seconds it took Massachusetts born Benn Ferriero to score the go ahead goal. It was a great hard-nosed play less than 3 minutes in by Kelly and Lucic which gave the black and gold their first of the night. Then 29 seconds later, Seguin touch passed the puck over the blue line to Lucic, Lucic went in on Niemi and slid a beautiful pass back to a charging Seguin for their second goal. A lot of sustained pressure and energy followed, but when you leave yourself only 20 minutes to try and make up for 40 against a San Jose caliber team, it will usually be an L for the night. That being said, I feel the better team did not win tonight. San Jose was opportunistic and made Boston's mistakes hurt, but they were outplayed by the Bruins for most of the night. Lucic had a 2 point evening, and now has 5 points in the last two games. Kelly had a two point night as well and Seguin continues to impress, netting his third of the year. What I thought was an unlikely combination line (Kelly, Segs and Looch) has turned out to have some instant chemistry. They all have very different skill sets, but have been fun these last few games to watch gel. I expect to see Tukka in net Thursday, and hope McQuaid is back on the ice. Steven Kampfer looks to have lost a step since last year, and I think it will be nice to have McQuaids physical play and defenseman mentality back.
We have the longest wait of the season upon us, 5 days until the next game. However, a home and away with the Montreal Canadiens will make it worth the wait. This is the section where I try to be as objective as I can while getting ready to welcome out next opponent. So, I will get that out of the way as fast as I can, and all reading please understand these are not compliments towards Le Habitant, my hate for them runs deep. The Habs have basically the same look as last year with only one significant difference, the signing of Eric Cole. He is a solid top 6 forward, but will have to be better than that in order for Montreal to make a serious run. The Canadiens are fast, faster than the Bruins for sure, but you can't skate away if your laying on the ice. This should be the mindset of the B's, we saw last year what happens when it is, and also when it isn't. Markov has re-signed, but coming off almost a year missed with injury, how affective can he be? Will he hold up all year? Only time will tell. Carey Price is in a contract year, and we all know how well he handles pressure, O'le Mr. Price! Hal Gil, blah blah blah, broken record. The guy is so overrated it makes me sick. PK "The Swan Dive" Subban is certainly offensively talented, but is a defensive liability, and yes that's as nice as I can be too him. I cannot wait for Horton to get his hands on him without the big oger (Hal Gill) getting in the way. I know, I am going to make my point, this is just too fun. I do not think the Canadiens forwards are as advertised, I think defensively this team is in a lot of trouble. There saving grace will once again be Carey Price. I see this team finishing 11th and missing the playoffs. It is apparent I do not care for Montreal, and I personally do not think they are that good. That being said, this is the best rivalry in all of sports, and they will get up for this game. Boston needs to come hard, come fast, and come often. Stay in their faces and hit everything that moves. These will not be easy games, and the B's composure will certainly be tested. The Canadiens pick their spots, challenge, and turtle better than any team I have ever seen. They goat teams into taking penalties and use their speed and puck moving PP to burn you. The Bruins have to play with a controlled temper, and they will be fine. Remember everyone, home and homes are like a great movie, one scene builds off the next, and this two game series should be one of the highlights of the regular season. Lets go Bruins!
We have the longest wait of the season upon us, 5 days until the next game. However, a home and away with the Montreal Canadiens will make it worth the wait. This is the section where I try to be as objective as I can while getting ready to welcome out next opponent. So, I will get that out of the way as fast as I can, and all reading please understand these are not compliments towards Le Habitant, my hate for them runs deep. The Habs have basically the same look as last year with only one significant difference, the signing of Eric Cole. He is a solid top 6 forward, but will have to be better than that in order for Montreal to make a serious run. The Canadiens are fast, faster than the Bruins for sure, but you can't skate away if your laying on the ice. This should be the mindset of the B's, we saw last year what happens when it is, and also when it isn't. Markov has re-signed, but coming off almost a year missed with injury, how affective can he be? Will he hold up all year? Only time will tell. Carey Price is in a contract year, and we all know how well he handles pressure, O'le Mr. Price! Hal Gil, blah blah blah, broken record. The guy is so overrated it makes me sick. PK "The Swan Dive" Subban is certainly offensively talented, but is a defensive liability, and yes that's as nice as I can be too him. I cannot wait for Horton to get his hands on him without the big oger (Hal Gill) getting in the way. I know, I am going to make my point, this is just too fun. I do not think the Canadiens forwards are as advertised, I think defensively this team is in a lot of trouble. There saving grace will once again be Carey Price. I see this team finishing 11th and missing the playoffs. It is apparent I do not care for Montreal, and I personally do not think they are that good. That being said, this is the best rivalry in all of sports, and they will get up for this game. Boston needs to come hard, come fast, and come often. Stay in their faces and hit everything that moves. These will not be easy games, and the B's composure will certainly be tested. The Canadiens pick their spots, challenge, and turtle better than any team I have ever seen. They goat teams into taking penalties and use their speed and puck moving PP to burn you. The Bruins have to play with a controlled temper, and they will be fine. Remember everyone, home and homes are like a great movie, one scene builds off the next, and this two game series should be one of the highlights of the regular season. Lets go Bruins!
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Bruins Find A Game, Blowout Leafs
Claude Julien said it best, "I do not know what I will get from this line shuffle, but I know what I'm not getting currently." Fast forward 24 hours to Thursday night, and only the 4th line remained intact as the new look Bruins throttled the Toronto Maple Leafs 6-2. Matt Bartkowski was re-assigned to Providence pre game to make room for the return of Steven Kampfer. David Krejci returned to the lineup after missing three games with a core injury. With the exception of still injured Adam Mcquaid, the Bruins were ready for Toronto and the NHL's current hottest line. Kesselmania was upon us, the puck dropped, and so did the gloves of Shawn Thornton. Instant spark and the B's were off and firing on all cylinders. The Bruins peppered Gustavsson with 48 shots, snuck 6 by including 2 on a much better looking PP (thank you David Krejci). Balanced scoring was on display at the Garden including three point nights from Chara, Ference, Lucic, and Seguin. It was the first 3 point game of Tyler's career, and his line certainly looked to be the sharpest on Thursday night. Tyler is still being slightly too unselfish at times, but it is very hard to critique him too harshly. He has been Boston's best forward this year so far, I would just love to see him shoot some more. Lucic played his best game of the year. The crushing power forward had his feet moving, had 4 hits on the night, and did an excellent job of matching Seguins speed and offensive zone presence. There appeared to be some good chemistry there, including each setting up the other on a pair of 3rd period goals. Centering that line was veteran, and newly named alternate captain, Chris Kelly. Kelly played a phenomenal 3 zone game and he seemed to have no problems heading that line with power and speed on his sides. Bergeron was again great in the defensive zone and added another point on the year with a beautiful top shelf bullet. He led the team with 9 shots. Phil Kessel finished the night minus-1 with 0 points. "Thank You Kessel" could be heard chanted very loudly following Tyler Seguin's goal.
Great defensive game was played by all 6 D-men. Obviously Z and Ference had 3 point nights, and Kampfer also picked up a helper. This was the result of hard work, smart pinches, neutral zone awareness, and excellent puck cycling. Not showing up in the box score was the impressive play of Joe Corvo. I know every blog I mention him, but he has not had a bad game yet this year. He has been such an improvement on the power play in particular, and his style certainly seems to have caught on. Seidenberg logged 22:25 of hard-nosed strong defense time, second to only Chara, at 25:23. Johnny Boychuk did not have his best game and was on the ice for both goals, but also made some strong pinches and had some nice body work along the boards. Once again Timmy Thomas was strong in net, stopping 26 of 28 shots. He was not perfect, but tonight the B's did not need him to be.
The Bruins took advantage of a team that played the night before, and will look to do the same Saturday night. The San Jose Sharks come to town after playing in New Jersey Friday night. Unlike Phil Kessel, "Jumbo" Joe Thornton was loved by Bruins fans. We were shocked and saddened when the franchise traded him away back in 2005. I wonder how he will be received this year after some of his comments last year regarding the Bruins and league discipline ties and the Paciorety incident. I would not be the least bit surprised for the boo birds that sung to Kessel to still be around for Jumbo. San Jose will be very tough and always are, well until the playoffs. They have been a very consistant playoff qualifier and are usually in the running for the President's trophy. The Sharks have been very shaky this year, only having one win (1-4-0) and having lost 3 straight going into New Jersey. They traded away a lot of their scoring in Dany Heatley and Devin Setoguchi, but got a rock solid defenseman in return from Minnesota, Brent Burns. The big question mark will be Martin Havlat, a lot of talent but a lot of frustration lately. They also picked up Michael Handzus from the Kings, and will continue to bolster some top tier talent in Thornton, Pavelski, and Marleau. Second year standout Logan Couture will look to build on a very solid rookie campaign. Expect a difficult but winnable matchup Saturday night. Do not let San Jose's record fool you, they are a top tier team and a favorite to come out of the West. The puck drops at 7:00.
Great defensive game was played by all 6 D-men. Obviously Z and Ference had 3 point nights, and Kampfer also picked up a helper. This was the result of hard work, smart pinches, neutral zone awareness, and excellent puck cycling. Not showing up in the box score was the impressive play of Joe Corvo. I know every blog I mention him, but he has not had a bad game yet this year. He has been such an improvement on the power play in particular, and his style certainly seems to have caught on. Seidenberg logged 22:25 of hard-nosed strong defense time, second to only Chara, at 25:23. Johnny Boychuk did not have his best game and was on the ice for both goals, but also made some strong pinches and had some nice body work along the boards. Once again Timmy Thomas was strong in net, stopping 26 of 28 shots. He was not perfect, but tonight the B's did not need him to be.
The Bruins took advantage of a team that played the night before, and will look to do the same Saturday night. The San Jose Sharks come to town after playing in New Jersey Friday night. Unlike Phil Kessel, "Jumbo" Joe Thornton was loved by Bruins fans. We were shocked and saddened when the franchise traded him away back in 2005. I wonder how he will be received this year after some of his comments last year regarding the Bruins and league discipline ties and the Paciorety incident. I would not be the least bit surprised for the boo birds that sung to Kessel to still be around for Jumbo. San Jose will be very tough and always are, well until the playoffs. They have been a very consistant playoff qualifier and are usually in the running for the President's trophy. The Sharks have been very shaky this year, only having one win (1-4-0) and having lost 3 straight going into New Jersey. They traded away a lot of their scoring in Dany Heatley and Devin Setoguchi, but got a rock solid defenseman in return from Minnesota, Brent Burns. The big question mark will be Martin Havlat, a lot of talent but a lot of frustration lately. They also picked up Michael Handzus from the Kings, and will continue to bolster some top tier talent in Thornton, Pavelski, and Marleau. Second year standout Logan Couture will look to build on a very solid rookie campaign. Expect a difficult but winnable matchup Saturday night. Do not let San Jose's record fool you, they are a top tier team and a favorite to come out of the West. The puck drops at 7:00.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Frustration Boils Over As 'Canes Top B's
I could sit here and dispute every call made last night. I could complain that the referees took this game from Boston, took their captain off the ice for 17 minutes, took their momentum and threw it out the window. Instead, I am going to follow suit with what this organization has done. Chalk it up to what it is, look at positives and negatives, learn from the mistakes, and take it out on Northeast division rival Maple Leafs on Thursday night. All you have to do is look at the lopsided penalties called, 17 to 8 in favor of the Montreal-esque Carolina Hurricanes, to know the story of this game.
Positives? Fair question, and not super easy to find if you just read the box score. The goal by Peverley is a positive, as he continues to be one of the better forwards 5 games in(and $3million richer). The fact that it was a PP tally just sweetens the pie. The PP is still not producing points, but there is a lot more movement. I like the adjustment the wings have made where they are curling around the faceoff dots and are either looking for the backdoor cross pass or putting it on net. They are passing back to the blue line much less once the puck gets deep in the zone, which is great to see. The guys without the puck need to do a bit more moving though. Teams are being allowed to stay in the box formation with sticks in passing lanes making cross ice passes hard. Some more moving around would be great to open up the ice a bit more. The B’s also need to have more bodies in front of the net screening. We saw flashes of it last night, but not consistently enough. Corvo is still shooting a lot of good tip opportunity pucks, as well as Big Z. Ference shot 4 or 5 pucks directly into shin pads last night, causing the puck to die or exit the offensive zone, and I noticed Boychuk do it a few times over the last couple games as well. When the defensemen do not have an open shooting lane, they need to cycle the puck to the boards and let the forwards work the play.
I think the biggest positive may be what hurt them most last night. Emotion. There is no arguing that the Bruins took some very undisciplined penalties. Marchand went out of his way to stir the pot, and though I thought it was crazy for him to get a misconduct, he definitely earned extra attention. You could tell by the look on Lucic’s face he was getting kicked out of that game. There was no stopping that, and you know what, I loved it. I loved Z standing up for Horton, I loved Horton standing up for Looch, I loved Chris Kelly dropping Sutter, and I loved Rask skating down the other end of the ice to make sure Cam Ward knew he had a dance partner if he really wanted to go. I loved it, and not the love the donnybrook crazed “hockey fans” who do not know or appreciate the technicality of the game love it. I loved it because this team looked mad. They looked frustrated, embarrassed, fed up, and ready to steam roll. Is this the Dallas game from 2009? Is it the Dallas or Montreal game from 2010? I do not know. I’ll tell you what I do know though. This team is the hardest team to play against when they are committed to physicality. When they take the ice and Shawn Thornton is barking down the other end, when all five guys grab a partner and say welcome to the Garden, our house, that’s when they are best. Ask Montreal, Philadelphia, and Tampa Bay. Ask Vancouver. This team needs a wake up call, and they need to realize if they do not bring their A game they will continue to be embarrassed, they will continue to be known as one and dones. Here’s to the boys taking this to heart, taking some pride in their games. Here’s to playing angry and to playing with the edge that brought us our first Stanley Cup in 39 years. Do you really want to play the big bad bruins when they are an angry and crushing team? Thursday night we will get to ask Toronto.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Bruins Find Their Game, Win SO 3-2
Kane, Toews, and Sharp. Pretty deadly crew to send into a shootout. Not to be outdone, Tim Thomas shut the door on all 3, and Tyler Seguin beat Crawford for a much needed win against the Blackhawks. In what was their best effort so far this year, Boston went into the Madhouse and came from behind to take the 2 points. The Bruins got stronger each period, and were far and away the better team in the second half of that game. It was great to see Horton get on the board this year with a goal, and Seguin picked up his team leading 5th point, but Johnny Boychuk was the star of the play. If it was not for the great play of Tim Thomas, Johnny Boychuk would have to have been the first star for the Bruins. He made so many great plays in the defensive zone, chased down pucks in the neutral zone, and made some very smart pinches in the offensive zone. On the scoring tally in particular, Boychuk chased a puck all the way down the boards beating Seabrook, and then had the offense prowess to move the puck behind the net and find a crashing Horton who deposited the puck glove side past Crawford. Also scoring for the B's was Chris Kelly off of a great pass shorthanded by Rich Peverley.
The Bruins did two things tonight that they have not done so far this year. Gregory Campbell dropped the mits with Jammal Mahers, and the rest of the Bruins were taking the body at all times. This team appeared to have finally realized the formula for their success, and as fans, that exciting brand of hockey is what we want to see. As bad as the powerplay is, the penalty kill is phenominal. The Blackhawks went 0 for 4 tonight and only mustered up one shot. Guys were getting big and blocking shots, putting sticks in passing lanes, and being aggressive knowing how well Chicago can move the puck. The Bruins have now scored as many goals on the PK as they have on the PP. That being said, the B's power play has shown some glimpses of brilliance. They were a couple posts and a few bounces from putting the puck in the net tonight with the extra man. They will eventually start cashing in as long as they continue to work hard. Another area the Bruins need to clean up is some of their D-mens decisions on passes coming through the neutral zone trying to lead breakouts. Teams are on to the D to D passes and cross ice passes from defense to forward. The Blackhawks did a great job of disturbing those passes and even got a breakaway goal off of a stolen pass. All in all, great way to cap the short road trip. The team took two out of a possible four points and if tonights game is any indication of things to come, its starting to look up for the black and gold. This was labeled as a measuring stick game, and the Bruins came out shorthanded with 5 defenseman and minus their top line center, and grinded out a win against a phenominal team.
Tuesday night the boys are back at the garden and get to take another crack at the Carolina Hurricanes. I really believe the Bruins underestimated this team last week, did not prepare well and did not get up for that game. I imagine they will wish to extract a bit of revenge on home ice. We have all seen the caliber of goalie that Cam Ward is, and we know he will be their best player. In order to beat the 'Canes, the Bruins will need to put a lot of rubber on net, put big bodies in front, and grind out another win. All reports look positive that both McQuaid and Krejci will dress and be good to go Tuesday night. What will be interesting is what lines Claude roles.
Please leave an answer: Will David Krejci be back on the first line, or do they stay with Seguin or Bergeron as they roled a few times against Chicago?
The Bruins did two things tonight that they have not done so far this year. Gregory Campbell dropped the mits with Jammal Mahers, and the rest of the Bruins were taking the body at all times. This team appeared to have finally realized the formula for their success, and as fans, that exciting brand of hockey is what we want to see. As bad as the powerplay is, the penalty kill is phenominal. The Blackhawks went 0 for 4 tonight and only mustered up one shot. Guys were getting big and blocking shots, putting sticks in passing lanes, and being aggressive knowing how well Chicago can move the puck. The Bruins have now scored as many goals on the PK as they have on the PP. That being said, the B's power play has shown some glimpses of brilliance. They were a couple posts and a few bounces from putting the puck in the net tonight with the extra man. They will eventually start cashing in as long as they continue to work hard. Another area the Bruins need to clean up is some of their D-mens decisions on passes coming through the neutral zone trying to lead breakouts. Teams are on to the D to D passes and cross ice passes from defense to forward. The Blackhawks did a great job of disturbing those passes and even got a breakaway goal off of a stolen pass. All in all, great way to cap the short road trip. The team took two out of a possible four points and if tonights game is any indication of things to come, its starting to look up for the black and gold. This was labeled as a measuring stick game, and the Bruins came out shorthanded with 5 defenseman and minus their top line center, and grinded out a win against a phenominal team.
Tuesday night the boys are back at the garden and get to take another crack at the Carolina Hurricanes. I really believe the Bruins underestimated this team last week, did not prepare well and did not get up for that game. I imagine they will wish to extract a bit of revenge on home ice. We have all seen the caliber of goalie that Cam Ward is, and we know he will be their best player. In order to beat the 'Canes, the Bruins will need to put a lot of rubber on net, put big bodies in front, and grind out another win. All reports look positive that both McQuaid and Krejci will dress and be good to go Tuesday night. What will be interesting is what lines Claude roles.
Please leave an answer: Will David Krejci be back on the first line, or do they stay with Seguin or Bergeron as they roled a few times against Chicago?
Thursday, October 13, 2011
'Canes outbattle B's, take win 3-2
Call it the Cup hangover. Call it line shuffeling and lack of chemistry. Call it the first road trip. Call it whatever you would like to, but I am going to call it what it is. Lack of effort. No one can sit in front of their televisions or buy a ticket to these games and be happy with the brand of hockey we have seen so far. Is Carolina horrible, no. Is Cam Ward a great goaltender, yes. So if the B's lose a hard fought game then this is not the kind of reaction they get. However, when this team comes out flat, again, and gets throttled in the effort department, then yes, we get a little cranky. Ward made some really incredible saves, and an inch or two one way or the other the Bruins could have found themselves with a win. That being said, this team is losing almost every puck battle. Their possesion is awful, they are not dumping pucks in behind the defense and getting in on the forecheck. There power play continues to be stale and their entries and breakouts are missing more than connecting. There is one player hitting people, Benoit Pouliot. One player! On the big bad bruins, one guy! I do not know if it is because of the cup and all the hoopla sorrounding it, or if these guys really believe they are a better, flashier offensive team then they are, but they need to stop trying to be so pretty. This team is a bully, grinder type of team. Great goaltending, team defense, and that "we are going to hit everything that moves" mentatlity are the only reasons they won the cup last year, and the only style that will lend them success again. I hate to break it to Milan Lucic, as he is my favorite player, but he doesnt score 30 goals on most teams. He needs to park himself in front of the goalie, screen and bang and get some dirty goals. Where is Horton and who is wearing that 18 sweater? Now I know it is not all that first lines fault, and yes you must allow time to get used to playing together, but that line is not doing the little things right now that make them successful.
On that topic, Tyler Seguin needs off that line and Bergy needs to be moved up. That is not a dig at Tyler. He played and has played very good so far this year. I believe Lucic and Horton enjoy playing with a pass first guy, Krejci and Bergeron, as opposed to a guy who loves open ice, puts on the afterburners and fires on net. Quite honestly, there were a few times last night on the rush were Seg's had to shoot because he got on net so quick none of his line mates were there for support. Bergy would slow the game down and allow for more time in the zone. The only draw back to that change is the fact that Marchand and Bergy have some definite chemistry, and are the line doing most of the scoring this young season. Last year Marshy and Seg's did spend some time together on that 3rd line and looked pretty good. Hey Claude, put Seguin on the power play!
I touched on it briefly, but I have been thoroughly impressed with the play of Benoit Pouliot. I did not like him in Montreal (go figure) and thought there could be some issues in the locker room with him after the whole David Krejci situation last year. He has not only brought the physical play and looks to make solid body contact on every shift, but almost every scrum has had him right in the middle of the action. I can particularly remember him standing up for Marchand twice and Bergeron once, a sure way to gain respect from the guys in the room. It is also important to remember this guy was the #4 overall pick by the Wild back in 2005. He was a member of the 2006 World Junior Champion Canadian team. Pouliot has tremendous upside and may thrive in this physical play market. See Shawn Thornton. Thorty has been trying to engage some opposing players in fisticuffs, but no one has wanted to dance yet. I will give him a pass because it is obvious he is trying to play his role and is taking advantage of his limited ice time.
The Bruins will continue their road trip Saturday night in Chicago against the very talented Blackhawks. They will certainly need a full 60 minute effort and a strong defensive showing. The Blackhawks are deep and Big Z will have his work cut out for him trying to match up with Kane, Toews, Sharp, and Hossa all night. Chicago can role any combination of that line and supporting cast and give any NHL club nightmares. The Blackhawks are pretty good defensively as well, but showed they can get a bit flustered with a heavy dose of hard nosed forecheck repeatedly last year. For the Bruins to be successful, they need to dump and chase, get pucks deep and make Keith and Seabrook constantly look over their shoulders to see whose coming. Crawford has won the starting spot in net, but is certainly not a 60 game a year goalie. The Bruins need to put a lot of rubber on net, see if they can't chase Crawford and get to Turco, who does not have great career numbers against the B's. There has been no word on Adam McQuaid or update on Krejci. If McQuaid cannot go, Matt Bartkowski will play in his spot, which will be a big drop off in physicality, leaving a void to be filled. I expect a much better effort Saturday night and hope to see them come strong out of the gates and take it to Chicago like other teams have been taking it to them. This is a real measuring stick game as Chicago is a top 3 favorite coming out of the west in the hunt for the Cup again this year. Saturday night at 8:30 the puck drops, and lets hope we see the Bruins we love to root for.
On that topic, Tyler Seguin needs off that line and Bergy needs to be moved up. That is not a dig at Tyler. He played and has played very good so far this year. I believe Lucic and Horton enjoy playing with a pass first guy, Krejci and Bergeron, as opposed to a guy who loves open ice, puts on the afterburners and fires on net. Quite honestly, there were a few times last night on the rush were Seg's had to shoot because he got on net so quick none of his line mates were there for support. Bergy would slow the game down and allow for more time in the zone. The only draw back to that change is the fact that Marchand and Bergy have some definite chemistry, and are the line doing most of the scoring this young season. Last year Marshy and Seg's did spend some time together on that 3rd line and looked pretty good. Hey Claude, put Seguin on the power play!
I touched on it briefly, but I have been thoroughly impressed with the play of Benoit Pouliot. I did not like him in Montreal (go figure) and thought there could be some issues in the locker room with him after the whole David Krejci situation last year. He has not only brought the physical play and looks to make solid body contact on every shift, but almost every scrum has had him right in the middle of the action. I can particularly remember him standing up for Marchand twice and Bergeron once, a sure way to gain respect from the guys in the room. It is also important to remember this guy was the #4 overall pick by the Wild back in 2005. He was a member of the 2006 World Junior Champion Canadian team. Pouliot has tremendous upside and may thrive in this physical play market. See Shawn Thornton. Thorty has been trying to engage some opposing players in fisticuffs, but no one has wanted to dance yet. I will give him a pass because it is obvious he is trying to play his role and is taking advantage of his limited ice time.
The Bruins will continue their road trip Saturday night in Chicago against the very talented Blackhawks. They will certainly need a full 60 minute effort and a strong defensive showing. The Blackhawks are deep and Big Z will have his work cut out for him trying to match up with Kane, Toews, Sharp, and Hossa all night. Chicago can role any combination of that line and supporting cast and give any NHL club nightmares. The Blackhawks are pretty good defensively as well, but showed they can get a bit flustered with a heavy dose of hard nosed forecheck repeatedly last year. For the Bruins to be successful, they need to dump and chase, get pucks deep and make Keith and Seabrook constantly look over their shoulders to see whose coming. Crawford has won the starting spot in net, but is certainly not a 60 game a year goalie. The Bruins need to put a lot of rubber on net, see if they can't chase Crawford and get to Turco, who does not have great career numbers against the B's. There has been no word on Adam McQuaid or update on Krejci. If McQuaid cannot go, Matt Bartkowski will play in his spot, which will be a big drop off in physicality, leaving a void to be filled. I expect a much better effort Saturday night and hope to see them come strong out of the gates and take it to Chicago like other teams have been taking it to them. This is a real measuring stick game as Chicago is a top 3 favorite coming out of the west in the hunt for the Cup again this year. Saturday night at 8:30 the puck drops, and lets hope we see the Bruins we love to root for.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Peverley Signed through 2014-15
Rich Peverley has signed a three year contract extension. He was acquired from The Atlanta Thrashers, now the Winnepeg Jets, last year for Blake Wheeler and Mark Stuart. He has not missed a game in the last two seasons, knocking on wood, and leads the team with 2 goals in this young season. A grinder, energy guy, penalty killer with good speed and a touch of offensive flair. Glad to see Rich will be around for a while.
Flat Effort, Av's outwork B's 1-0
It was only game 3, thats what I keep telling myself. Theres 79 more to go, plenty of time to make this right. The Boston media has a way of taking every game and disect it like it is win or go home, and I am going to try my best to keep this on in perspective. That being said, 2 points are hard to come by in the NHL, especially as the defending champions. A team cannot afford to squander away points that are directly related to a lack of effort. Now Ive put my black and gold goggles on and I have said, it was a matinee game, it totally screws up their preparation. Oh Tuukka was in net, they arent used to playing infront of him yet. Maybe they underestimated the Avalanche (they really arent that bad, just young). Well I took them off so I could write this, but they will be going back on soon. Matinee excuses dont work, especially on a team led by Claude who will not allow excuses. Tuukka played awesome and looks like he is certainly after that #1 (#1A if you ask Timmy or Claude) goalie spot. As far as the Avalanche go, they are a team in the NHL. If you underestimate any team on any night they will beat you. This team is fast and came out really looking to take it to the B's physically. I really dont think they were expecting that, they looked flat and caught off gaurd in the first 10 mins. The only sour spot for me is that play when the Bruins got scored on. Let me preface this statement with a few things: The refs are part of the ice, they do not intentially get in the way. I am in no way complaining of a conspiracy to hand the B's a loss. That being said, it was a perfect screen by linesman Brian Mack, which totally took Johnny Boychuck outta the play, unable to defend Milan Hejduk who snuck one by Tuukka. The Bruins were victimized, but guess what, you create your own chances. Colorado's forecheck, energy, compete factor, possession, and speed were just simply better on Monday afternoon. The more deserving team won. The positive to take, there 79 of them left and I hope this served as a learning opportunity for the boys.
Wednesday night the boys start a road trip down in Carolina to faceoff with the Hurricanes. This may be what they need to gel a bit and start getting the hockey season officially off to a good start. Can not talk about Carolina without mentioning Eric Staal. 33 goals and 43 assists last including 12 tallies on the power play. Last years Calder Trophy winner Jeff Skinner added 31 goals, and they added Alex Ponikarovsky and Tim Brent, which should be a good mix with their forward lines. In goal they have a solid start in Cam Ward. He is a streaky goalie, one night he just shuts the door and the next lets in some gimmes. There is no doubt their problem is their defense, they just let up too many goals. That is as much to do with a lack of backcheck from their forwards as it is their defenseman. Losing Joe Corvo (to Boston) wont help that. However, Carolina fans are pretty high on TIm GLeason and Joni Pitkanen. The 'Canes got Bryan Allen at the deadline last year and also took Thomas Kaberle of the Bruins hands (thank you!!) so they are thinking they are in good shape. I still see them finishing around 10th in the east and missing the playoffs.
Lets all look for a better effort against the 'Canes Wednesday night at 7:00 on Versus. Remember friends, Big Z got his first hat trick against the Canes last year! Lets Go Black and Gold!
Wednesday night the boys start a road trip down in Carolina to faceoff with the Hurricanes. This may be what they need to gel a bit and start getting the hockey season officially off to a good start. Can not talk about Carolina without mentioning Eric Staal. 33 goals and 43 assists last including 12 tallies on the power play. Last years Calder Trophy winner Jeff Skinner added 31 goals, and they added Alex Ponikarovsky and Tim Brent, which should be a good mix with their forward lines. In goal they have a solid start in Cam Ward. He is a streaky goalie, one night he just shuts the door and the next lets in some gimmes. There is no doubt their problem is their defense, they just let up too many goals. That is as much to do with a lack of backcheck from their forwards as it is their defenseman. Losing Joe Corvo (to Boston) wont help that. However, Carolina fans are pretty high on TIm GLeason and Joni Pitkanen. The 'Canes got Bryan Allen at the deadline last year and also took Thomas Kaberle of the Bruins hands (thank you!!) so they are thinking they are in good shape. I still see them finishing around 10th in the east and missing the playoffs.
Lets all look for a better effort against the 'Canes Wednesday night at 7:00 on Versus. Remember friends, Big Z got his first hat trick against the Canes last year! Lets Go Black and Gold!
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Bruins dominate, drop Bolts 4-1
Behind a strong showing from the reigning Vezina, Conn Smythe, and Stanley Cup winner Tim Thomas, the Bruins dominated in all areas of the game last night. That showed up in the boxscore to the tune of 4-1, a convincingly dominant performance by the Bruins in the rematch to the Eastern Conference Finals of last year. Once again it was the young guns making their presence known. Marchand and Seguin each had 2 assists while Peverley had 2 goals. Bergeron was finally rewarded on the score sheet with a helper of his own. This guy makes more plays he is not rewarded for with a point than any other player I have ever watched. It is unbelievable that Bergy does not figure into more goals. He is constantly making good decisions with and without the puck, behind and infront of the play. He is phenominal on the breakout and must start to be considered in the top 5 in the NHL in the faceoff circle. Once again the special teams looked good. The PK is very good right now and actually made Tampa's potent power play look mediocre. Discipline will be a key for this team this year. Lucic took a slashing penalty, Seguin with a trip, and Marchand with a roughing that were undisciplined penalties. The Downies, Otts and Averys of the world are there to goat you into penalties. The B's cant afford their big players sitting in the box with those clowns.
Joe Corvo continues to impress and I think he was a great addition. He moves the puck very well and even made a few pretty difficult saucer passes over sticks that were pretty close last night. When the lanes are not open, he fires on net and that seems to be contagious. Both Ference and McQuiad seemed a bit more trigger happy then they normally are. That is great thing, I am tired of yelling "shoot!!" at my tv on the power play. Another difference so far is Seguin's willingness to shoot. He appeared to be overthinking a lot last year, and at times the game seemed to fast for him. This year he has been a totally different player. He is passing still, which is his fortay, but it looks like he realizes the Bruins need him to dent the twine and he is shooting hard and often. He did a curl and drag wrister around Hedman last night, handcuffed Garon and alomst beat him. That is the kind of explosiveness Seguin brings.
Last night it was pretty clear that the Bruins are just on a different level when it comes to their physicality. Victor Hedman, the Bolts "big" defenseman, turned away from everything. Even Steve Downie, who I cant stand but usually is willing to muck it up, looked to the refs everytime anything happened to beg for a call. I dont want to get ahead of myself, and I think any team with Stamkos, St. Louis, and Lecavlier will be good, but I do not see Tampa matching well with Boston, Philly, Pittsburgh, or the slightly tuffened up Sabres in a 7 games series. You can almost gaurantee they will meet one of them come playoff time. Goaltending will be an area to watch as well. Roloson is game, but another year older and did not get the nod last night. Garon played pretty well at times, but did not standup to heavy forecheck, gives up a lot of second chances and does not appear to be a top tier net minder.
Tomorrow we get matinee hockey with old friends Matt Hunwick and Chuck Kobasew (off season acquire) and the Colorado Avalanche coming into North Station. This is a team on a rebuild, but they have some young talent that will be very good, led by Matt Duchene. They went out and got Erik Johnson, stud defenseman, very good two way center Jay McClement, former 20 goal scorer Chuck Kobasew and #2 overall pick Gabriel Landeskog. Add to that Paul Stastny, who will be looking to bounce back after a dissapointing season which saw him only total 57 points, and sophmore standout Duchene, and you have a team with a few pretty good cornerstones. I see the Av's missing the playoffs again but the B's cant sleep on this opponenet. Thats why they play the game!
Joe Corvo continues to impress and I think he was a great addition. He moves the puck very well and even made a few pretty difficult saucer passes over sticks that were pretty close last night. When the lanes are not open, he fires on net and that seems to be contagious. Both Ference and McQuiad seemed a bit more trigger happy then they normally are. That is great thing, I am tired of yelling "shoot!!" at my tv on the power play. Another difference so far is Seguin's willingness to shoot. He appeared to be overthinking a lot last year, and at times the game seemed to fast for him. This year he has been a totally different player. He is passing still, which is his fortay, but it looks like he realizes the Bruins need him to dent the twine and he is shooting hard and often. He did a curl and drag wrister around Hedman last night, handcuffed Garon and alomst beat him. That is the kind of explosiveness Seguin brings.
Last night it was pretty clear that the Bruins are just on a different level when it comes to their physicality. Victor Hedman, the Bolts "big" defenseman, turned away from everything. Even Steve Downie, who I cant stand but usually is willing to muck it up, looked to the refs everytime anything happened to beg for a call. I dont want to get ahead of myself, and I think any team with Stamkos, St. Louis, and Lecavlier will be good, but I do not see Tampa matching well with Boston, Philly, Pittsburgh, or the slightly tuffened up Sabres in a 7 games series. You can almost gaurantee they will meet one of them come playoff time. Goaltending will be an area to watch as well. Roloson is game, but another year older and did not get the nod last night. Garon played pretty well at times, but did not standup to heavy forecheck, gives up a lot of second chances and does not appear to be a top tier net minder.
Tomorrow we get matinee hockey with old friends Matt Hunwick and Chuck Kobasew (off season acquire) and the Colorado Avalanche coming into North Station. This is a team on a rebuild, but they have some young talent that will be very good, led by Matt Duchene. They went out and got Erik Johnson, stud defenseman, very good two way center Jay McClement, former 20 goal scorer Chuck Kobasew and #2 overall pick Gabriel Landeskog. Add to that Paul Stastny, who will be looking to bounce back after a dissapointing season which saw him only total 57 points, and sophmore standout Duchene, and you have a team with a few pretty good cornerstones. I see the Av's missing the playoffs again but the B's cant sleep on this opponenet. Thats why they play the game!
Friday, October 7, 2011
Emotional Ceremony, B's drop opener 2-1
First off, that ceremony was great. It is so fun to be a fan of an organization so rich in history to be able to stretch generations as the Bruins did last night. To see Milt Schmidt grace the ice at the age of 93 was amazing, you could see in his eyes how proud he was. I was impressed with Jeremy Jacobs, Owner, as well. I thought he did an excellent job of recognizing how passionate the fans are about this team, and made it very clear he is not satisfied with one Cup. It gives a definite clear direction of where this fanchise wants to go, and as a fan, I could not be more excited. Last but certainly not least, Mark Rechhi. What an honor it was to route for him for the last few years. He is one of those guys you wish spent forever with your team. A great player, a great leader, and a great person. He was such a huge part of that cup run. Thank You Rex! On to the game....
There is no doubt who the standout was last night for the black and gold. Brad Marchand. He was all over the ice and that new two year contract is looking pretty good on him. He scored at 9:42 of the first period with a PP tally. He also had a handful of other chances, and made both Chris Pronger and Kimmo Timonen look silly on two gorgeous dekes. The Bruins came out hard in the first, rang the iron a few times but also missed the net on quite a few chances in the first. David Krejci was his usual crafty self as well last night. He is masterful with the puck. He slows the game down so well and passing lanes just open up for him. He will most certainly have to be at the top of the list come the end of the season as he will be a free agent. The rest of the first line, Horton and Lucic, seemed a little rusty last night. Although Nathan was robbed by Timmonen while falling away but being blocked with a wide open net. They will certainly gel with time and have the makings of a top tier line in the NHL. Patrice Bergeron looks very prepped to be in the discussion for the Selke Trophy again this year. (Best defensive forward) He was a beast on the back check and did a great job in the neutral zone. Another positive was that the Bruins power play picked it up as the game went on against an elite team witha n aggressive penalty kill. They started off by scoring with the extra man, then went cold for 2 power plays in a row. Black and Gold nation was saying, "Here we go again." Luckily the undisciplined Flyers gave us a few more chances (thanks Wayne Simmonds) The B's had much better puck possession and chances in the 3rd on those power plays. They were cycling the puck well along the walls, and unlike Thomas Cabaret, I mean Kaberle, Joe Corvo is not afraid to let it fly from the blue line. Z, Corvo, Boychuk, Ference and McQuaid give the B's quite a few options from back there that can shoot.
It looks like Philly did a good job of getting that rock in net they needed in Ilya Bryzgalov. I think there big question mark is their defense. We all know at some point Chris Pronger will go down with an injury (especially as he isnt 100% right now) and that leaves them quite a bit short. I think they have the tools to make up for the goal scoring they traded away with Jeff Carter and Mike Richards. Giroux, Van Riemsdyk, Jagr, Briere, Couturier, Read, and Voracek will do just fine lighting the lamp.
As expected, both teams had an incredible pace, but both seemed to lack the crispness we will see within a few weeks. We get Philly 3 more times this year, circle your calenders, as these teams seem to hate each other more as the year gets deeper. Now its time to revisit last years Eastern Conference Finals with the Tampa Bay Lightning coming to town Saturday night at 7:00. Be back here to get a recap and share some thoughts. Til next time!
There is no doubt who the standout was last night for the black and gold. Brad Marchand. He was all over the ice and that new two year contract is looking pretty good on him. He scored at 9:42 of the first period with a PP tally. He also had a handful of other chances, and made both Chris Pronger and Kimmo Timonen look silly on two gorgeous dekes. The Bruins came out hard in the first, rang the iron a few times but also missed the net on quite a few chances in the first. David Krejci was his usual crafty self as well last night. He is masterful with the puck. He slows the game down so well and passing lanes just open up for him. He will most certainly have to be at the top of the list come the end of the season as he will be a free agent. The rest of the first line, Horton and Lucic, seemed a little rusty last night. Although Nathan was robbed by Timmonen while falling away but being blocked with a wide open net. They will certainly gel with time and have the makings of a top tier line in the NHL. Patrice Bergeron looks very prepped to be in the discussion for the Selke Trophy again this year. (Best defensive forward) He was a beast on the back check and did a great job in the neutral zone. Another positive was that the Bruins power play picked it up as the game went on against an elite team witha n aggressive penalty kill. They started off by scoring with the extra man, then went cold for 2 power plays in a row. Black and Gold nation was saying, "Here we go again." Luckily the undisciplined Flyers gave us a few more chances (thanks Wayne Simmonds) The B's had much better puck possession and chances in the 3rd on those power plays. They were cycling the puck well along the walls, and unlike Thomas Cabaret, I mean Kaberle, Joe Corvo is not afraid to let it fly from the blue line. Z, Corvo, Boychuk, Ference and McQuaid give the B's quite a few options from back there that can shoot.
It looks like Philly did a good job of getting that rock in net they needed in Ilya Bryzgalov. I think there big question mark is their defense. We all know at some point Chris Pronger will go down with an injury (especially as he isnt 100% right now) and that leaves them quite a bit short. I think they have the tools to make up for the goal scoring they traded away with Jeff Carter and Mike Richards. Giroux, Van Riemsdyk, Jagr, Briere, Couturier, Read, and Voracek will do just fine lighting the lamp.
As expected, both teams had an incredible pace, but both seemed to lack the crispness we will see within a few weeks. We get Philly 3 more times this year, circle your calenders, as these teams seem to hate each other more as the year gets deeper. Now its time to revisit last years Eastern Conference Finals with the Tampa Bay Lightning coming to town Saturday night at 7:00. Be back here to get a recap and share some thoughts. Til next time!
Monday, September 19, 2011
Welcome
Opening week of camp, so I decided this would be a good time to start the blog up. Please post any discussion topics or questions you may have. Lets start with a simple one sure to be a focal point of the offense. Does Milan Lucic eclipse the 30 goal mark this year or do we see a decline in his production?
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