If you are true Penguins fan, then you know that all is not lost after a game one performance that was average, but not great. Here are thirteen things the Pens need to do to win tonight in Detroit:
1. No more lazy plays. Way too many last night. Scuderi and Gill had a pair that allowed the first goal. Too many lazy passes were just snatched and driven hard the other way by Detroit.
2. Bury your chances. Malkin, Letang, and Satan all had quality chances. Pens are up 2-1 there, who knows? Well, we won't know. Don't let that happen tonight.
3. Win them faceoffs. Pens really need to win some of the draws, especially when you lose them almost 2-1 in Game 1.
4. Dump the puck in. They pretty much put 4-5 at the blue line. Can't keep trying that.
5. Power play. Had some chances, but only two shots and failed to establish the second one. See #4 for solution.
6. Play a sixty-minute game. They didn't Saturday, and that was apparent.
7. "Lively" boards cannot be utilized. Stop the point shots, solve part of that problem.
8. Fleury has to look like he did in Carolina for game 4. That performance yesterday was inadequate at best.
9. Crosby and Hank. Sid's got to solve Zetterberg sooner rather than later. His linemates are going to play hard. I think Sid is going to will his team on like he did in game 2 in Washington. Even though they lost that game, didn't Sid put on a show?
10. Bill Geurin. He played some of the worst I've seen him play. I don't know why, either. Lazy passes. Not driving hard enough. You're 39, and this could be it for you! DRIVE, DAMN IT!
11. Don't worry about Geno. He showed up yesterday, and he's ready to win some games. Easily the best player out there last night for the Pens. He's got to be better out there.
12. Kronwall wants your head. He took Ruutu's and Malone's last year. He wanted Geno's last night. I'm not sure that that rule doesn't need changed so you can't leave your feet, or that he's not breaking a rule by charging, but everybedy better keep their heads on a swivel because he wants a piece of somebody. Last night, he got the glass. Something tells me, though, we haven't seem the last of him.
13. Good things happen when you go to the net. We need to get a little more activity in the center of the ice. Letang had a beautiful chance there. The Wings are playing a surround style. They put 2-3 guys around the puck carrier. However, that leaves someone open, usually along the point. Gonchar and Letang must make them pay for those shifts.
That's all. Let's Go Pens!
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Monday, May 25, 2009
Twenty Things about the Penguins
Sorry I've been so quiet. That whole life thing hit (as unacceptable as some think that is). With that, let's do it!
1. There's a reason they're called the two-headed monster. Crosby and Malkin are absolutely dominating on the ice. Their linemates are benefitting as well.
2. Last season, the Pens's success in the conference finals was because of Crosby and Hossa. Geno's line struggled mightily and became ineffective towards the end of the eastern conference finals and into the next round. Crosby and Hossa carried that series into six games.
3. This season, it's a different tale. Malkin is still producing at a torrid pace. He's got five goals in two games. Fedotenko has one, and Talbot's had so many chances that have bounced away, but he's not going to keep missing. Crosby, Kunitz, and Guerin are also a more complete line, even though Hossa is an all-world winger.
4. Cam Ward's playing his heart out. His defense needs to help him.
5. The J. Staal line was one of the most effective forechecking lines during the Philly series. It's been getting more of a defensive role and not getting much offense. That must change in order to advance to the finals and win the Cup. Staal's got to do some better shooting and start burying those chances.
6. Hal Gill is really slow-footed. So bad, if he gets caught pinching in against a fast opponent, it's likely a goal on a 2v1. This is noticable when watching Scuderi.
7. Given Gill's failures, they are still a shutdown pair. E. Staal is still goal-less. That's a good thing.
8. Fleury's been sharp, but I still think he's been outplayed by Cam Ward.
9. Chris Kunitz finally got a goal, but he's been really contributing with the assists. I'd like more balance on the attack, but I'll take the wins over balance anyday.
10. Miro Satan fought. Wow.
11. Kris Letang is showing why he will be a feared defenseman like Nick Lidstrom or Mike Green in the next few years. Wow, that guy can shoot.
12. Mark Eaton, a defenseman many people think is not worth his money, is proving he is this postseason. Great defensive play so far.
13. Who is better: Sid or Geno? My brother says Sid because he's got the skills. I say Geno because he can go through anyone and can do anything you ask of him. You decide.
14. Sidney Crosby playoff beard watch: currently just okay/ meh. Definitely a step up on Jonathan Toews, though.
15. Best beard on the team: Bill Guerin. Some grey in there, which is always a plus, but it's very thick and full.
16. Loving Craig Adams right now. What a solid 4-th line pick up.
17. I'm liking the seven-defensemen, 11-forwards strategy Disco Dan's rolling with. Crosby and Malkin are both playing really well and carrying this team. Double-shifting them is a great idea, particularly with the rest they get in between games (2 days between 1-2, 3-4).
18. Sergei Gonchar's looking better every game. The rest is definitely helping. I'm hoping, though, to get back to six D-men soon.
19. That said, he's still looking slow-footed and struggling at times. I'm hoping he won't be a liability next round.
20. Power play has scored in seven straight games. Doing really solid right now in that department.
And there you go. A bit rushed, but all good. More coming soon.
1. There's a reason they're called the two-headed monster. Crosby and Malkin are absolutely dominating on the ice. Their linemates are benefitting as well.
2. Last season, the Pens's success in the conference finals was because of Crosby and Hossa. Geno's line struggled mightily and became ineffective towards the end of the eastern conference finals and into the next round. Crosby and Hossa carried that series into six games.
3. This season, it's a different tale. Malkin is still producing at a torrid pace. He's got five goals in two games. Fedotenko has one, and Talbot's had so many chances that have bounced away, but he's not going to keep missing. Crosby, Kunitz, and Guerin are also a more complete line, even though Hossa is an all-world winger.
4. Cam Ward's playing his heart out. His defense needs to help him.
5. The J. Staal line was one of the most effective forechecking lines during the Philly series. It's been getting more of a defensive role and not getting much offense. That must change in order to advance to the finals and win the Cup. Staal's got to do some better shooting and start burying those chances.
6. Hal Gill is really slow-footed. So bad, if he gets caught pinching in against a fast opponent, it's likely a goal on a 2v1. This is noticable when watching Scuderi.
7. Given Gill's failures, they are still a shutdown pair. E. Staal is still goal-less. That's a good thing.
8. Fleury's been sharp, but I still think he's been outplayed by Cam Ward.
9. Chris Kunitz finally got a goal, but he's been really contributing with the assists. I'd like more balance on the attack, but I'll take the wins over balance anyday.
10. Miro Satan fought. Wow.
11. Kris Letang is showing why he will be a feared defenseman like Nick Lidstrom or Mike Green in the next few years. Wow, that guy can shoot.
12. Mark Eaton, a defenseman many people think is not worth his money, is proving he is this postseason. Great defensive play so far.
13. Who is better: Sid or Geno? My brother says Sid because he's got the skills. I say Geno because he can go through anyone and can do anything you ask of him. You decide.
14. Sidney Crosby playoff beard watch: currently just okay/ meh. Definitely a step up on Jonathan Toews, though.
15. Best beard on the team: Bill Guerin. Some grey in there, which is always a plus, but it's very thick and full.
16. Loving Craig Adams right now. What a solid 4-th line pick up.
17. I'm liking the seven-defensemen, 11-forwards strategy Disco Dan's rolling with. Crosby and Malkin are both playing really well and carrying this team. Double-shifting them is a great idea, particularly with the rest they get in between games (2 days between 1-2, 3-4).
18. Sergei Gonchar's looking better every game. The rest is definitely helping. I'm hoping, though, to get back to six D-men soon.
19. That said, he's still looking slow-footed and struggling at times. I'm hoping he won't be a liability next round.
20. Power play has scored in seven straight games. Doing really solid right now in that department.
And there you go. A bit rushed, but all good. More coming soon.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Eleven points about the upcoming Pens/Canes series
In honor of our Staal, let's break down this conference final with the eleven points about this series.
11. Cowher power- Bill Cowher, native of Pittsburgh and former Steelers head coach, has morphed from jutted-jaw coach to local Carolina celebrity. He even sounded the hurricane warning in game six. Does this officially mark him as a traitor to the black and gold, or will he change allegiances to where they properly belong?
10. These guys named Staal- In case you've been living under a rock/ fallout shelter, there's two Staal brothers- Eric and Jordan playing for Carolina and Pittsburgh, respectively. Did I mention their brothers?
9. Miroslav Satan- He's got some big assists and is playing smart hockey for a 4th line guy. Had a few big shots, particularly one against Varlamov in game seven- that he's been robbed on. He's even getting some time with Malkin. He could be a difference maker, particularly with Sykora scratched.
8. Erik Cole- He was a big piece of the Canes's 2006 Cup run. Expect him to play a big part again. Been quiet and doesn't have a goal yet. Look for him to try and change that.
7. Scott Walker- You know, the guy who punched Aaron Ward in the face and one-hit KOed him. Likely a sucker punch, but it was one hell of a right hand. He also scored the winning goal in game 7 in OT. Also, his wife has cervical cancer. I wish his wife the best, and you can bet it's going to motivate this guy to get more goals like that.
6. Cardiac Canes- They sure love their dramatic finishes. Scoring twice in the last 100 seconds of game 7 against NJ. Winning in OT game 7 against Boston. These guys can't be counted out ever.
5. That other Ward- His first name ain't Hines, and he'll be in Pittsburgh. At just 23, he's already got a Conn Smythe Trophy from the 2006 Carolina cup run. He's never lost a playoff series (6-0) and he's rocking solid numbers again (2.22 GAA, .927 sv%). He's carrying this team on his back.
4. The other goalie- Fleury didn't have a dominating performance against Washington (current numbers: 2.72 GAA and .901 sv%). Some of that can be attributed to Washington's ridiculous offensive players such as Ovechkin, Federov, and Backstrom (the rest didn't show up). Even then, there were some seriously soft goals let in. The Cardiac Canes will feast if they get such chances.
3. Special teams- Pens have a decently clicking power play right now. It had at least one goal in each of the four victories against the Capitals, including that nifty skate-to-stick move by Crosby in game 7 for the first goal. Carolina's got the best PK of any team remaining and also has the worst power play, converting at an anemic 10.7%. Pens will need to solve that PK in order to win this series. With Gonchar, Letang, Sid and Geno out there, shouldn't be a problem.
2. Secondary scoring. I was going to make this topic specifically about the blue line, but let's include everybody. Big contributors helped the Pens win. Bill Guerin (5), Mark Eaton (leads D-men with 4 goal? huh?), Ruslan Fedotenko (4) Kris Letang (3), Gonchar (2). Chris Kunitz currently has zero goals. He's had his chances. Look for him to get a break in this series.
1. Sid and Geno. Of course they are #1. Sid has been the dominating player we know he is, #1 in points (21) and goals (12) in the playoffs. Malkin has had a very quiet but productive post-season and is #2 in scoring. After having a rough start and three points in four games to start, he had seven points (1 goal, 6 assists) in the final three games. He had nine points (four goals, five assists) through the Philadelphia series. He's not been the dominator everyone knows he can be, but it's not as if he's invisible out there. A few more goals, and he'll be right back in the conversation. These two are always the difference between the Pens winning and losing.
Prediction: E. Staal will cause the Pens problems, and Ward can steal a game or two, but he's due for his first series loss. Pens in six.
Note: Apologies for the picture cutoffs. I'll resolve this for the next time. Pictures taken from the Puck Daddy blog on Yahoo! Sports and Empty Netters blog by Seth Rorabaugh at www.post-gazette.com
11. Cowher power- Bill Cowher, native of Pittsburgh and former Steelers head coach, has morphed from jutted-jaw coach to local Carolina celebrity. He even sounded the hurricane warning in game six. Does this officially mark him as a traitor to the black and gold, or will he change allegiances to where they properly belong?
10. These guys named Staal- In case you've been living under a rock/ fallout shelter, there's two Staal brothers- Eric and Jordan playing for Carolina and Pittsburgh, respectively. Did I mention their brothers?
9. Miroslav Satan- He's got some big assists and is playing smart hockey for a 4th line guy. Had a few big shots, particularly one against Varlamov in game seven- that he's been robbed on. He's even getting some time with Malkin. He could be a difference maker, particularly with Sykora scratched.
8. Erik Cole- He was a big piece of the Canes's 2006 Cup run. Expect him to play a big part again. Been quiet and doesn't have a goal yet. Look for him to try and change that.
7. Scott Walker- You know, the guy who punched Aaron Ward in the face and one-hit KOed him. Likely a sucker punch, but it was one hell of a right hand. He also scored the winning goal in game 7 in OT. Also, his wife has cervical cancer. I wish his wife the best, and you can bet it's going to motivate this guy to get more goals like that.
6. Cardiac Canes- They sure love their dramatic finishes. Scoring twice in the last 100 seconds of game 7 against NJ. Winning in OT game 7 against Boston. These guys can't be counted out ever.
5. That other Ward- His first name ain't Hines, and he'll be in Pittsburgh. At just 23, he's already got a Conn Smythe Trophy from the 2006 Carolina cup run. He's never lost a playoff series (6-0) and he's rocking solid numbers again (2.22 GAA, .927 sv%). He's carrying this team on his back.
4. The other goalie- Fleury didn't have a dominating performance against Washington (current numbers: 2.72 GAA and .901 sv%). Some of that can be attributed to Washington's ridiculous offensive players such as Ovechkin, Federov, and Backstrom (the rest didn't show up). Even then, there were some seriously soft goals let in. The Cardiac Canes will feast if they get such chances.
3. Special teams- Pens have a decently clicking power play right now. It had at least one goal in each of the four victories against the Capitals, including that nifty skate-to-stick move by Crosby in game 7 for the first goal. Carolina's got the best PK of any team remaining and also has the worst power play, converting at an anemic 10.7%. Pens will need to solve that PK in order to win this series. With Gonchar, Letang, Sid and Geno out there, shouldn't be a problem.
2. Secondary scoring. I was going to make this topic specifically about the blue line, but let's include everybody. Big contributors helped the Pens win. Bill Guerin (5), Mark Eaton (leads D-men with 4 goal? huh?), Ruslan Fedotenko (4) Kris Letang (3), Gonchar (2). Chris Kunitz currently has zero goals. He's had his chances. Look for him to get a break in this series.
1. Sid and Geno. Of course they are #1. Sid has been the dominating player we know he is, #1 in points (21) and goals (12) in the playoffs. Malkin has had a very quiet but productive post-season and is #2 in scoring. After having a rough start and three points in four games to start, he had seven points (1 goal, 6 assists) in the final three games. He had nine points (four goals, five assists) through the Philadelphia series. He's not been the dominator everyone knows he can be, but it's not as if he's invisible out there. A few more goals, and he'll be right back in the conversation. These two are always the difference between the Pens winning and losing.
Prediction: E. Staal will cause the Pens problems, and Ward can steal a game or two, but he's due for his first series loss. Pens in six.
Note: Apologies for the picture cutoffs. I'll resolve this for the next time. Pictures taken from the Puck Daddy blog on Yahoo! Sports and Empty Netters blog by Seth Rorabaugh at www.post-gazette.com
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Pens move on
So, how about those Pittsburgh Penguins? In game seven, they demolished the Washington Capitals 6-2, ending the series and heading home to watch the finale of the Bruins-Hurricanes series, which will end tonight as well. What would absolutely make my day is if the Red Wings lose and Marian Hossa gets to ponder about whether or not he selected the right team in the off-season.
Since I am out of witty stuff right now, I will simply leave you with two clips to ponder over until we find out the Penguins's opponent tonight. First, the always awesome handshake line (begins at about 1:50 of this clip):
And, as a result of my lack of creativity today, I will give you this incredibly awesome clip (also a celebration of Star Trek's recent release!) Have a great day, ladies and gents.
Since I am out of witty stuff right now, I will simply leave you with two clips to ponder over until we find out the Penguins's opponent tonight. First, the always awesome handshake line (begins at about 1:50 of this clip):
And, as a result of my lack of creativity today, I will give you this incredibly awesome clip (also a celebration of Star Trek's recent release!) Have a great day, ladies and gents.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Congratulations because you should?
Today at work, I had something happen which several hours later made me scratch my head. I was working today at my job, and my boss walked up to me and asked me to sign a card for a co-worker who is getting married. I signed it when I got it, and when I couldn't think of something that was funny but still safe for work, I just signed it and gave it back to my boss.
Soon after, I questioned that decision. Now, about seven hours post-signing, I regret signing that card and wish I had not. This employee, a woman, has worked at our office now for about five months. During this time, she spent about half of it sitting in the cubicle opposite from my desk. While she was there, we spoke maybe once. The rest of the time, we have not spoke at all. Her job respoinsibilities do not coincide with mine, but I still manage to talk to several other employees while I'm working there that have nothing to do with my job.
So, I thought, "why did I do that? Just to be nice and not break a taboo?" Answer: yes. Our society is very self-centered, and places a ton of emphasis on achievements. Marriage is one of them. Therefore, any time someone gets married, even if it is someone we don't know well, we must praise them and do extra things for them, even when it's not entirely necessary. Tomorrow, they are throwing a luncheon party for her. I will not be there, but if I was, I would likely not even take the food and just continue working. This is an office-stopping deal. It's not just for the department she's in, or even just the people she closely works with. It's for everyone, and I can tell you I'm not the only person who doesn't know her well.
Do not mistake this as a "I hate my job, therefore I hate everyone there" or "I'm not married, so I hate everyone else who is" rant. This has to do with acknowledging something for someone you don't know well. My birthday's coming up on Sunday. I hope that the people who actually wish me happy birthday do because they mean it and don't feel obligated. If they do it because they're obligated, then that just sucks, don't it?
So, there's my opinion. Now, I want to know what yours is. Am I just a big, fat jerk, or am I speaking for the people? Leave me a comment.
Soon after, I questioned that decision. Now, about seven hours post-signing, I regret signing that card and wish I had not. This employee, a woman, has worked at our office now for about five months. During this time, she spent about half of it sitting in the cubicle opposite from my desk. While she was there, we spoke maybe once. The rest of the time, we have not spoke at all. Her job respoinsibilities do not coincide with mine, but I still manage to talk to several other employees while I'm working there that have nothing to do with my job.
So, I thought, "why did I do that? Just to be nice and not break a taboo?" Answer: yes. Our society is very self-centered, and places a ton of emphasis on achievements. Marriage is one of them. Therefore, any time someone gets married, even if it is someone we don't know well, we must praise them and do extra things for them, even when it's not entirely necessary. Tomorrow, they are throwing a luncheon party for her. I will not be there, but if I was, I would likely not even take the food and just continue working. This is an office-stopping deal. It's not just for the department she's in, or even just the people she closely works with. It's for everyone, and I can tell you I'm not the only person who doesn't know her well.
Do not mistake this as a "I hate my job, therefore I hate everyone there" or "I'm not married, so I hate everyone else who is" rant. This has to do with acknowledging something for someone you don't know well. My birthday's coming up on Sunday. I hope that the people who actually wish me happy birthday do because they mean it and don't feel obligated. If they do it because they're obligated, then that just sucks, don't it?
So, there's my opinion. Now, I want to know what yours is. Am I just a big, fat jerk, or am I speaking for the people? Leave me a comment.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
A rant about friends
This is the topic I promised that didn't involve anything about hockey. I will leave that subject for a few days since it's been every single substantive subject so far (as someone so kindly pointed out to me).
I'd like to discuss for a few minutes the rules of get-togethers with your friends. Now, I'd like to think I got quite a few friends inside of my current graduate program. Some of them are closer than others, of course, but I woul like to place that number at fifteen, plus or minus about five. I tend to be a fan of hanging out at least once on the weekends so I'm not spending most of the weekend by myself, so I try to set something up starting on Tuesday or Wednesday through facebook. This way, by week's end, we've got something set to go and hopefully it's given people time to check it out and give ideas (usually a lot of these messages state 'hey, what's up... who wants to go somewhere, and if so, where and when?') It also lets people see what others are thinking, which is always good.
These messages, with a few exceptions, receive little response. Even from people I'd consider decent-good friends. I find this frustrating and terrible etiquette. Granted, sometimes the lists include people I'm extending a hand out to and be nice, but I find those even more frustrating. You genuinely try to make an effort in some way to reach out to people, but they simply ignore you for one reason or another.
So, you're asking "well, why aren't you asking them in person if you are in class with them?" Wrong, I'm not in class with all of them. Some of them I don't see during the week. I can't interact that way. Using facebook messages is the fastest way to do it. Another question you may be thinking: "Well, okay, but why not just text them or something?" Answer: I do sometimes, but sometimes even those go unanswered. Even phone calls will create the same response.
I'm sorry, friends, but until you all at the very least respond, I'm going to hesitate on pulling this trigger. I thank those of you that do respond, and I apologize to those that get tied up somehow. I mean that. But if you don't want to pay me any mind, then I suppose I won't pay you any, either.
I'd like to discuss for a few minutes the rules of get-togethers with your friends. Now, I'd like to think I got quite a few friends inside of my current graduate program. Some of them are closer than others, of course, but I woul like to place that number at fifteen, plus or minus about five. I tend to be a fan of hanging out at least once on the weekends so I'm not spending most of the weekend by myself, so I try to set something up starting on Tuesday or Wednesday through facebook. This way, by week's end, we've got something set to go and hopefully it's given people time to check it out and give ideas (usually a lot of these messages state 'hey, what's up... who wants to go somewhere, and if so, where and when?') It also lets people see what others are thinking, which is always good.
These messages, with a few exceptions, receive little response. Even from people I'd consider decent-good friends. I find this frustrating and terrible etiquette. Granted, sometimes the lists include people I'm extending a hand out to and be nice, but I find those even more frustrating. You genuinely try to make an effort in some way to reach out to people, but they simply ignore you for one reason or another.
So, you're asking "well, why aren't you asking them in person if you are in class with them?" Wrong, I'm not in class with all of them. Some of them I don't see during the week. I can't interact that way. Using facebook messages is the fastest way to do it. Another question you may be thinking: "Well, okay, but why not just text them or something?" Answer: I do sometimes, but sometimes even those go unanswered. Even phone calls will create the same response.
I'm sorry, friends, but until you all at the very least respond, I'm going to hesitate on pulling this trigger. I thank those of you that do respond, and I apologize to those that get tied up somehow. I mean that. But if you don't want to pay me any mind, then I suppose I won't pay you any, either.
Five Reasons Why You Should Give Hockey a Chance
First, a note: this blog will not be all hockey-related stuff, but since it's the playoffs, and there's some great action going on right now, I figure it'd be great to get a little more publicity for one of my favorite sports. With that said, we may begin.
I've talked to my friends alot about hockey. There's a couple that are decent fans. I've even invited some over to my place to watch my beloved team, the Pittsburgh Penguins, play during the playoffs. I get a few response: none, "hockey sucks", or "hockey? really?" Well, here are some reasons to sit down and flip a game on. Consequently, there's one on tonight: Anaheim Ducks vs Detroit Red Wings, 7:30 ET on Versus. Commence the listing!
1. It's completely unpredictable. Yeah, you could say this about any sport, but there's greater chances something can happen. In hockey, one bad pass can lead to a turnover that's immediately turned into a goal at the other end. The goalie misplays a puck, loses his stick, and it bounces in front of the net for an easy goal (Pens vs Capitals, game 3). A simple penalty turns into a power play, and seconds later it's in the net, causing a huge momentum swing. These simple things (with the exception of #2) happen frequently in games, and the plays both goaltenders, forwards, and defensemen do can be absolutely fantastic to watch.
2. It's wickedly fast paced. The game is at its best when it's a vertical game. Pucks get cycled fast from behind the net back up to the top of the blue line, and shots and chances fly constantly. Even if the scores seem low like in soccer, the area is much smaller and it's much more dramatic. There's nothing like a gigantic rebound in front of the net and 4-5 people fighting to claim it.
3. Most passionate fan bases. Soccer comes a close second, here but look at this. People got ravenously upset about Montreal's absolutely dismal 100th season. Philadelphians bitched out Sidney Crosby in the Wachovia Center (including fighting Pens fans in the building). Crowds with their own nicknames such as the "C" of Red in Calgary. Arenas with their own awesome nicknames such as the Shark Tank (H.P. Pavilion). Carolina's rabid fan base. In each of these locations, hockey's thriving and it's not relenting. In some places, hockey has been a hard sell, such as Columbus, Atlanta, and Phoenix (the Phoenix Coyotes may move to Canada), but the places where it's found a unique home. However, even with such a small fan base, find me a set of Cleveland Browns fans who care more about their team than Montreal Canadiens fans.
4. Best athletes as people. Yeah, you got your Sean Averys and your Todd Bertuzzis and your Marty McSorleys, but most of them are amazing people off the ice. They give huge amounts to charity and donate their time to help people in need, even the enforcers known for fighting. Most teams try really hard to give back to their communities and the players give it all in this department, which is great to see.
5. Stars. Good ones, too. You've got Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin. Two big stars, playing against each other, and two incredible huge playoff performances for them both. They are showing why they deserve as much attention as Kobe or Lebron in the NBA or Tom Brady or Peyton Manning in the NFL.
So, there's your five things. Now, go watch tonight's game. Or tomorrow's Pens game at 7:00. I will be watching that. Like going to the net, if you watch hockey, good things will happen.
I've talked to my friends alot about hockey. There's a couple that are decent fans. I've even invited some over to my place to watch my beloved team, the Pittsburgh Penguins, play during the playoffs. I get a few response: none, "hockey sucks", or "hockey? really?" Well, here are some reasons to sit down and flip a game on. Consequently, there's one on tonight: Anaheim Ducks vs Detroit Red Wings, 7:30 ET on Versus. Commence the listing!
1. It's completely unpredictable. Yeah, you could say this about any sport, but there's greater chances something can happen. In hockey, one bad pass can lead to a turnover that's immediately turned into a goal at the other end. The goalie misplays a puck, loses his stick, and it bounces in front of the net for an easy goal (Pens vs Capitals, game 3). A simple penalty turns into a power play, and seconds later it's in the net, causing a huge momentum swing. These simple things (with the exception of #2) happen frequently in games, and the plays both goaltenders, forwards, and defensemen do can be absolutely fantastic to watch.
2. It's wickedly fast paced. The game is at its best when it's a vertical game. Pucks get cycled fast from behind the net back up to the top of the blue line, and shots and chances fly constantly. Even if the scores seem low like in soccer, the area is much smaller and it's much more dramatic. There's nothing like a gigantic rebound in front of the net and 4-5 people fighting to claim it.
3. Most passionate fan bases. Soccer comes a close second, here but look at this. People got ravenously upset about Montreal's absolutely dismal 100th season. Philadelphians bitched out Sidney Crosby in the Wachovia Center (including fighting Pens fans in the building). Crowds with their own nicknames such as the "C" of Red in Calgary. Arenas with their own awesome nicknames such as the Shark Tank (H.P. Pavilion). Carolina's rabid fan base. In each of these locations, hockey's thriving and it's not relenting. In some places, hockey has been a hard sell, such as Columbus, Atlanta, and Phoenix (the Phoenix Coyotes may move to Canada), but the places where it's found a unique home. However, even with such a small fan base, find me a set of Cleveland Browns fans who care more about their team than Montreal Canadiens fans.
4. Best athletes as people. Yeah, you got your Sean Averys and your Todd Bertuzzis and your Marty McSorleys, but most of them are amazing people off the ice. They give huge amounts to charity and donate their time to help people in need, even the enforcers known for fighting. Most teams try really hard to give back to their communities and the players give it all in this department, which is great to see.
5. Stars. Good ones, too. You've got Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin. Two big stars, playing against each other, and two incredible huge playoff performances for them both. They are showing why they deserve as much attention as Kobe or Lebron in the NBA or Tom Brady or Peyton Manning in the NFL.
So, there's your five things. Now, go watch tonight's game. Or tomorrow's Pens game at 7:00. I will be watching that. Like going to the net, if you watch hockey, good things will happen.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
You've got a blog, so speak your mind... sort of!
So, third post on this sucker in twelve hours. Do not expect this much content regularly. I'm just in the whole "woo, I gots a blog!" mentality. It will fade soon enough, like that snapshot of who you woke up looking at on Sunday morning having no idea how you got there.
One of the subjects I promised some insight on was politics. Unfortunately, that is not going to happen. The main reason is twofold. First, I can't post anything regarding city politics that is not an official opinion of mine (I hope to post a few official political opinions here) because of the potential backlash if I say something critical. Second, my line of work in public service may hinge on how non-partisan I am, and if I make postings of a partisan nature and a potential employer starts raking through it, well... you get the idea.
Therefore, the best solution here is to avoid the trap. It is sad I have to do this. If there was an option to just exclude employers from reading this, I'd go all-out and write some stuff that'd surely piss some people off. I'm so saddened that I can't write on some subjects I'd love to, like the bailouts, the economy, international stuff, and my musings about the state government, and even perhaps my Area Commission. It is a shame that in this day and age, where everything is public, political correctness rules and the gotcha game is in full effect, I can't talk about everything. You never know who may read a topic of yours and turn it around, nailing you to the wall with it. I have never been nailed by something I wrote online in the past to haunt me in the present, but you never know. In this case, it's probably better to play it safe than sorry. Maybe someday I will get paid for my opinions on these subjects, but that day is not today.
Well, that is all for now. Tonight, expect a piece either on the Penguins game or another topic I've come up with. Until then, this is John Henry Eden signing off.
One of the subjects I promised some insight on was politics. Unfortunately, that is not going to happen. The main reason is twofold. First, I can't post anything regarding city politics that is not an official opinion of mine (I hope to post a few official political opinions here) because of the potential backlash if I say something critical. Second, my line of work in public service may hinge on how non-partisan I am, and if I make postings of a partisan nature and a potential employer starts raking through it, well... you get the idea.
Therefore, the best solution here is to avoid the trap. It is sad I have to do this. If there was an option to just exclude employers from reading this, I'd go all-out and write some stuff that'd surely piss some people off. I'm so saddened that I can't write on some subjects I'd love to, like the bailouts, the economy, international stuff, and my musings about the state government, and even perhaps my Area Commission. It is a shame that in this day and age, where everything is public, political correctness rules and the gotcha game is in full effect, I can't talk about everything. You never know who may read a topic of yours and turn it around, nailing you to the wall with it. I have never been nailed by something I wrote online in the past to haunt me in the present, but you never know. In this case, it's probably better to play it safe than sorry. Maybe someday I will get paid for my opinions on these subjects, but that day is not today.
Well, that is all for now. Tonight, expect a piece either on the Penguins game or another topic I've come up with. Until then, this is John Henry Eden signing off.
Alex Ovechkin should be suspended
In game four of the Stanley Cup Semifinals between Washington and Pittsburgh with about five minutes left in the first period, Washington's Alex Ovechkin hits Sergei Gonchar, resulting in a two-minute minor penalty and Gonchar leaves the ice shaken and doesn't return. Here is a video of the hit:
Now, why is this a suspension-worthy hit. First, it's below the thigh region. It's not a hip-check. He's not going for one like he did on Brooks Orpik in game three. Second, he makes no attempt to slow down and diminish this hit. He hits Gonchar so hard that he spins him on one leg 360 degrees. Third and finally, Ovechkin has a history of performing charges on players. He rarely gets them called because he is Alex Ovechkin, but a statement needs sent that the NHL shouldn't tolerate this stuff from anyone.
He won't get a suspension, no matter how upset this hit makes me. This is the NHL's greatest fantasy come true on the ice rink. This series is single-handedly driving more interest in the NHL. He may get fined like Chris Kunitz, but no suspension is coming. It's disheartening because if this was any other player such as Steve Ott of the Dallas Stars or Donald Brashear of the Washington Capitals, this probably results in a five minute major and maybe a game misconduct. Players should not be allowed to take charges at anyone, no matter who you are or how glorious the hit appears on a highlight reel.
Now, why is this a suspension-worthy hit. First, it's below the thigh region. It's not a hip-check. He's not going for one like he did on Brooks Orpik in game three. Second, he makes no attempt to slow down and diminish this hit. He hits Gonchar so hard that he spins him on one leg 360 degrees. Third and finally, Ovechkin has a history of performing charges on players. He rarely gets them called because he is Alex Ovechkin, but a statement needs sent that the NHL shouldn't tolerate this stuff from anyone.
He won't get a suspension, no matter how upset this hit makes me. This is the NHL's greatest fantasy come true on the ice rink. This series is single-handedly driving more interest in the NHL. He may get fined like Chris Kunitz, but no suspension is coming. It's disheartening because if this was any other player such as Steve Ott of the Dallas Stars or Donald Brashear of the Washington Capitals, this probably results in a five minute major and maybe a game misconduct. Players should not be allowed to take charges at anyone, no matter who you are or how glorious the hit appears on a highlight reel.
Welcome
Welcome to my brand new blog called "Seismic Failure." Why the name, you ask? Because I created it at 12:30 AM and it seemed like a good title. The title is in no way a reflection on my outlook of life or anything, it just seemed all cool and stuff. May change if I create a better one. Time to stop talking about this, and on to the stuff you REALLY care about: what I'm going to talk about.
This blog will be dedicated to lots of random stuff. In reading, you will get a potpourri of different topics. I am hoping to discuss my favorite sports teams (This is the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Pittsburgh Penguins, and Ohio State Football), some politics, some things that really grind my gears, my writings perhaps, some commentaries, and musings on life. In other words, a gigantic mound of crap. With that, I hope you enjoy reading. First content post next!
This blog will be dedicated to lots of random stuff. In reading, you will get a potpourri of different topics. I am hoping to discuss my favorite sports teams (This is the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Pittsburgh Penguins, and Ohio State Football), some politics, some things that really grind my gears, my writings perhaps, some commentaries, and musings on life. In other words, a gigantic mound of crap. With that, I hope you enjoy reading. First content post next!
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