If you get one 5 on 3 opportunity in a game that is pretty good. If you get two 5 on 3 opportunities that is great. If you get three 5 on 3 opportunities.... well your team might be extremely lucky. In Game 4 of the Western Conference Final between the Canucks and the Sharks the Canucks were given three 5 on 3 chances. This came a game after the Canucks were given two 5 on 3's in game 3 but failed to score on both of them.
With the game still scoreless and the Sharks controlling most of the play the Canucks drew consecutive minor penalties to have a 5 on 3. The game was at critical stage in the hockey game and it was looking like the first goal would turn out huge. Early in the man advantage Ryan Kesler popped home his sixth of the post season to give the Canucks a 1-0 lead.
After a Sharks too many men call, the Canucks quickly went to work again on their second 5 on 3. The Canucks passed the puck around until Sami Salo blasted a puck home as the Canucks doubled their advantage to 2-0. The Sharks continued to take careless penalties. The Sharks were called for delay of game and the Canucks were given their third 5 on 3. Again, the Canucks made quick work with the man advantage, Sami Salo scored his second of the game to give the Canucks a 3-0 lead.
The Canucks lead spread to 4-0 when Alex Burrows scored a goal on a odd man rush to put the final nail in the coffin. The great think about the fourth goal was Hendrik Sedin made a great pass to find Burrows. Burrows had the easy job. All he needed to do was keep his stick on the ice so he could tap it in.
The Sharks put on the pressure for the rest of the period. They shot from everywhere to try to beat Reberto Luongo. The Sharks managed to get two goals past Luongo but thats as close as they came. The Canucks showed in game four that they can win a game, when they get out played for the majority of game. In fact, you could make a case that the Canucks got out played for 55 minutes of the game.
The win also puts the Sharks behind the eight ball, if they weren't already behind it. The Sharks will have to beat the Canucks three times in a row. To make matters worse they might have to win those three game without their star player Joe Thornton. He left the game after the clean hit on Canucks forward Raffi Torres. Thornton is questionable for game 5.
The Canucks have a chance to get to their first Stanley Cup Finals for the first time since 1994. The difference between this year is they will have home advantage. The key for the Canucks is to not look ahead. This playoffs the Canucks are 2-4 when they are trying to close out their opponent and 6-10 since 2003. The Sharks will for sure bring it for game 5. They have had a great season racking up 105 points and are hoping to reward their fans with at least one extra home game.
The game starts at 6pm tomorrow and can be seen on CBC, RDS and Versus.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Friday, May 13, 2011
Canucks Advance to Western Conference Final for First Time Since 1994
When the Canucks-Predators series began, not many gave the Predators a chance to win the series. Six games later it was discovered that the Nashville Predators were a much better team them most people thought.
The bottom line is that the Vancouver Canucks have advanced to the Western Conference Finals for the first time since their Cinderella run in the spring of 1994. The only difference between the run in 1994 in comparison to this years run is that this years run was expected. However, with the expectations of a cup run this year also brings in pressure. Pressure that the Canucks have shown that they can handle, game 7 against Chicago was maybe the most amount of pressure they have faced in the 40 years of being in the NHL. The question is do the Canucks have anything left in the tank to win eight more games?
The answer is yes. The Canucks during the regular season showed they can win in any situation. The Canucks in past years have been a very mediocre road team. This year is different. The Canucks were the best road team in the NHL going 27-10 4. That was a significant improvement from the Canucks road record in 2010 (20-19-2). If you add that to the Canucks 4-2 record on the road in the playoffs this year, the Canucks have been superb on the road this year.
Why does this matter? Well the 2010 Stanley Cup Champions the Chicago Blackhawks won eight out of their 16 games on the road last year. Home ice doesn't mean that much in the NHL compered to other sports. In fact, it it is pretty easy to steal road games.
Furthermore, the best thing about the Canucks winning right now is Daniel and Hendrik Sedin are not producing like Art Ross Trophy winners. Despite Daniel's goal on Monday and Hendrik's empty net goal in game 4, the twins have been almost non existent. The Sedins will eventually get going. The truth is they are too good of players to not score. Daniel and Hendrik have been pretty consistent by averaging about a point per game.
If the Sedins every get going the Canucks might have a pretty deadly attack to move on to the Stanley Cup Finals for the first time since 1994. The play of Ryan Kesler has elevated the Canucks to the Western Conference Final possibly single handedly. In the Canucks Western Conference Semi Final the Canucks scored 14 goals. That stat is nothing to brag about but Ryan Kesler has something to brag about. He has been in on 11 out of the 14 goals. If Ryan Kesler can continue his amazing play Canucks
fans should be in for a big party come the end of May.
Despite, the play of Ryan Kesler, I wouldn't be surprised either way if the Canucks season ends soon. The Canucks next opponent, the San Jose Sharks are a much better team then the Nashville Predators and the Canucks will have to be much more discipline. More Importantly, Luongo will have to play much better an eliminate the bad goal from behind the net.
All in all the series win is important but the Canucks haven't reached their main goal yet. Yes the Canucks have gotten the Chicago Blackhawks monkey off their backs and the second round exit off their back a loss in the Conference final would still be disappointing. The Canucks are the Presidents Trophy winners so their bound to put up a good fight. The problem is their are so many good teams this year nothing is a given.
The bottom line is that the Vancouver Canucks have advanced to the Western Conference Finals for the first time since their Cinderella run in the spring of 1994. The only difference between the run in 1994 in comparison to this years run is that this years run was expected. However, with the expectations of a cup run this year also brings in pressure. Pressure that the Canucks have shown that they can handle, game 7 against Chicago was maybe the most amount of pressure they have faced in the 40 years of being in the NHL. The question is do the Canucks have anything left in the tank to win eight more games?
The answer is yes. The Canucks during the regular season showed they can win in any situation. The Canucks in past years have been a very mediocre road team. This year is different. The Canucks were the best road team in the NHL going 27-10 4. That was a significant improvement from the Canucks road record in 2010 (20-19-2). If you add that to the Canucks 4-2 record on the road in the playoffs this year, the Canucks have been superb on the road this year.
Why does this matter? Well the 2010 Stanley Cup Champions the Chicago Blackhawks won eight out of their 16 games on the road last year. Home ice doesn't mean that much in the NHL compered to other sports. In fact, it it is pretty easy to steal road games.
Furthermore, the best thing about the Canucks winning right now is Daniel and Hendrik Sedin are not producing like Art Ross Trophy winners. Despite Daniel's goal on Monday and Hendrik's empty net goal in game 4, the twins have been almost non existent. The Sedins will eventually get going. The truth is they are too good of players to not score. Daniel and Hendrik have been pretty consistent by averaging about a point per game.
If the Sedins every get going the Canucks might have a pretty deadly attack to move on to the Stanley Cup Finals for the first time since 1994. The play of Ryan Kesler has elevated the Canucks to the Western Conference Final possibly single handedly. In the Canucks Western Conference Semi Final the Canucks scored 14 goals. That stat is nothing to brag about but Ryan Kesler has something to brag about. He has been in on 11 out of the 14 goals. If Ryan Kesler can continue his amazing play Canucks
fans should be in for a big party come the end of May.
Despite, the play of Ryan Kesler, I wouldn't be surprised either way if the Canucks season ends soon. The Canucks next opponent, the San Jose Sharks are a much better team then the Nashville Predators and the Canucks will have to be much more discipline. More Importantly, Luongo will have to play much better an eliminate the bad goal from behind the net.
All in all the series win is important but the Canucks haven't reached their main goal yet. Yes the Canucks have gotten the Chicago Blackhawks monkey off their backs and the second round exit off their back a loss in the Conference final would still be disappointing. The Canucks are the Presidents Trophy winners so their bound to put up a good fight. The problem is their are so many good teams this year nothing is a given.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Jake Locker Picked 8th Overall by Titans
When I found out that Jake Locker was taken 8th overall to the Tennessee Titans, I was really surprised. It wasn't that I thought Locker was a bad Quarterback or an immature Quarterback, it surprised because of all the talk I heard he could of been late first to early second.
Personally, I didn't think Locker would have gone in the second round. I also didn't think he would have been on the board when the Seahawks were scheduled to pick in the 25th spot. My gut feeling was he was a pretty good lock to go the Vikings at #12. The reason why the Vikings would have been a good fit for Locker is because of the Vikings Quarterback situation. The Vikings started three quarterbacks last year, two weren't that good in Joe Webb and Tarvaris Jackson and one is likely to retire in Brett Favre. The Vikings might only be one player away from competing in the NFC North. The Vikings went 6-10 last and with another play maker on offense the Vikings could of gone from 6-10 to 9-7.
What made it more a shock was I thought the Titans were in good hands at the Quarterback position. Kerry Collins played in ten games trowing 14 Ttouchdown passes and eight interceptions. The other Titans Quarterback was Vince Young. Young, like Collins had decent numbers throwing ten touchdown passes and only throwing three interceptions.
One would think that the Titans would be at an okay position at Quarterback. Do the Titans think that their not in a good position at QB? Or did they think that Locker is a bit underrated and has too much potential to pass up?
I think it's a bit of both. Jake Locker was one of the best recruits coming out of high school and could of gone to almost any school he wanted. He chose Washington primarily because it was the closet school to his hometown of Ferndale Wa. His Freshmen year was a good year. His passing numbers were below average but his mobility in the pocket and willingness to scramble made up for it. The Huskies finished 4-9 but would have done better if they had a good defense.
In 2008 Locker was given a crushing blow. In the Huskies Pac 10 home opener against Stanford, Locker broke his thumb. He left the game and didn't return the rest of the season and the Huskies finished 0-12.
In 2009 the Huskies were ready for a turnaround and so was Locker. Steve Sarkisian was the new head coach after the firing of Tyrone Willingham. Stats wise Locker had one of the best years during his time at Washington. He threw for 21 Touchdowns and only 11 Picks and almost getting to the 3,000 yard milestone for throwing the ball. The Huskies just missed going to a bowl game finishing 5-7.
In mid December Locker made it clear that he would return for his Senior season. Going into the season Locker was a possible Heisman trophy winner. After the Huskies 23-17 opening day loss to BYU, it became clear that he would not be winning the Heisman. Locker had an up and down season and so did the Huskies. They found themselves 3-6 with three winnable games left. The Huskies beat UCLA 24-7, then beat Cal 16-13 and WSU 35-28 both in the last minute to become bowl eligible. The Huskies found themselves in the Holiday Bowl against the Nebraska Cornhuskers. It was a rematch of a September game that Nebraska won 56-21. Jake Locker and fellow teammates Chris Polk and Mason Foster led the Huskies to a 19-7 upset win. It is important to note that Locker battled a rib injury for most of the season but still put up okay numbers.
My gut feeling is that this pick is a wait and see type of pick. Locker is a player that makes every player on the field better. He is the player that will break a tackle and make something out of nothing. He has a chance to be a franchise player for the Titans. On the flip side he has the chance to be a wasted pick if he gets rattled by the big stage. The bright side is that Locker changed the Huskies program around, so maybe he can do that to the Titans.
What made it more a shock was I thought the Titans were in good hands at the Quarterback position. Kerry Collins played in ten games trowing 14 Ttouchdown passes and eight interceptions. The other Titans Quarterback was Vince Young. Young, like Collins had decent numbers throwing ten touchdown passes and only throwing three interceptions.
One would think that the Titans would be at an okay position at Quarterback. Do the Titans think that their not in a good position at QB? Or did they think that Locker is a bit underrated and has too much potential to pass up?
I think it's a bit of both. Jake Locker was one of the best recruits coming out of high school and could of gone to almost any school he wanted. He chose Washington primarily because it was the closet school to his hometown of Ferndale Wa. His Freshmen year was a good year. His passing numbers were below average but his mobility in the pocket and willingness to scramble made up for it. The Huskies finished 4-9 but would have done better if they had a good defense.In 2008 Locker was given a crushing blow. In the Huskies Pac 10 home opener against Stanford, Locker broke his thumb. He left the game and didn't return the rest of the season and the Huskies finished 0-12.
In 2009 the Huskies were ready for a turnaround and so was Locker. Steve Sarkisian was the new head coach after the firing of Tyrone Willingham. Stats wise Locker had one of the best years during his time at Washington. He threw for 21 Touchdowns and only 11 Picks and almost getting to the 3,000 yard milestone for throwing the ball. The Huskies just missed going to a bowl game finishing 5-7.
In mid December Locker made it clear that he would return for his Senior season. Going into the season Locker was a possible Heisman trophy winner. After the Huskies 23-17 opening day loss to BYU, it became clear that he would not be winning the Heisman. Locker had an up and down season and so did the Huskies. They found themselves 3-6 with three winnable games left. The Huskies beat UCLA 24-7, then beat Cal 16-13 and WSU 35-28 both in the last minute to become bowl eligible. The Huskies found themselves in the Holiday Bowl against the Nebraska Cornhuskers. It was a rematch of a September game that Nebraska won 56-21. Jake Locker and fellow teammates Chris Polk and Mason Foster led the Huskies to a 19-7 upset win. It is important to note that Locker battled a rib injury for most of the season but still put up okay numbers.
My gut feeling is that this pick is a wait and see type of pick. Locker is a player that makes every player on the field better. He is the player that will break a tackle and make something out of nothing. He has a chance to be a franchise player for the Titans. On the flip side he has the chance to be a wasted pick if he gets rattled by the big stage. The bright side is that Locker changed the Huskies program around, so maybe he can do that to the Titans.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Canucks Win Epic Overtime Game to Knock Out Defending Champs
For 16 days during the 2010 Olympics the theme in Vancouver was "Believe," maybe the Canucks fans just needed to believe for one of the most anticipated Game 7's in Canuck history.
The stage was set. The best team in the NHL last year was going to play the best team in the NHL this year for a do or die Game 7. As a hockey fan, Game 7 is the two best words in hockey. That is the case unless your team is in it.
I have lots of memories as a Canucks fan. Game 7 in 2003 against St. Louis, Game 7 in 2007 against Dallas and loads of regular season success year after year. I had seen a lot of games but I had never witnessed a more intense game then the one that was played last night. In fact, even an average hockey fan would admit that the game last night was intense.
Going into the game last night, I was feeling pretty confident. Despite, the Blackhawks being the defending Stanley Cup Champions, the didn't play in a Game 7 during their cup run last year. In fact, there were only four players on the Blackhawks roster that had ever played in a Game 7. In contrast, the Canucks had 12 players who had played in Game 7's.
When the game started my focus was on Reberto Luongo. For the Canucks to win, I thought he just had to be average. When the Canucks scored 2:43 seconds into the game my confidence level grew. I thought it was a type of goal that could kick start a game and swing momentum. Alex Burrows second goal of the post season was the only goal that period. If the Canucks could hang on for 40 more minutes they would get their monkey off their back.
In the second period, the Canucks started to get a lot of good scoring chances thrown at rookie goaltender Corey Crawford. The Canucks out shot the Blackhawks 15-6 but still, the score remained 1-0. Going into the 3rd period I started to get nervous. I knew that Chicago was too good of a team to keep scoreless for the whole game and Luongo was bound to give up a goal on a luckly bounce.
In a series that had all the twists and turns, the third period had another twist. Early in the third period Alex Burrows was taken down on a breakaway. The referee signaled for a penalty shot. Alex Burrows moved in on goalie Cory Crawford but could not score. The game was still 1-0 Vancouver. The rest of the third period both teams traded chances but on one was able to find the back of the net.
With just over three minutes to go, Vancouver was rewarded a power play. If the Canucks could score on it they could pretty much seal the deal. At the very least they could kill 2 minutes off the clock. However, the Canucks were sloppy in the neutral zone and turned the puck over which led to a goal by Johnathan Towes that sent the game into overtime.
In the overtime intermission, I thought it was going to be a bad bounce that would end the Canucks season. I decided to watch the overtime period in the kitchen. I thought that was a good idea because that is where I watched Game 7 between the Canucks and Stars in 2007 and the Canucks won.
During overtime, Alex Burrows was called for a penalty. As bad as the officiating was in this series, I thought it was a good call. The Canucks dug deep and killed the penalty which gave them momentum. I was now feeling confident again. When Alex Burrows stole the pack and walked in to blast the knuckle puck past Corey Crawford I started to run around the house like a chicken with its head cut off.
Alex Burrows game winning goal sent Rogers Arena into bedlam. It depends how far the Canucks go but if the Canucks can make a cup run this year, it might be the biggest goal in Canucks history. A goal that for sure saved the Canucks from embarrassment.
Now that the Canucks were finally able to beat the Blackhawks, no one will care what happened in games four, five and six. April 26, 2011 will always be a great day in Canucks history. It was one of the most intense games in Canucks history. For me, I will remember this day the rest of my life. Some people call it luck, but I call it justice for all those times us Canucks fans have been heartbroken.
The stage was set. The best team in the NHL last year was going to play the best team in the NHL this year for a do or die Game 7. As a hockey fan, Game 7 is the two best words in hockey. That is the case unless your team is in it.
I have lots of memories as a Canucks fan. Game 7 in 2003 against St. Louis, Game 7 in 2007 against Dallas and loads of regular season success year after year. I had seen a lot of games but I had never witnessed a more intense game then the one that was played last night. In fact, even an average hockey fan would admit that the game last night was intense.
Going into the game last night, I was feeling pretty confident. Despite, the Blackhawks being the defending Stanley Cup Champions, the didn't play in a Game 7 during their cup run last year. In fact, there were only four players on the Blackhawks roster that had ever played in a Game 7. In contrast, the Canucks had 12 players who had played in Game 7's.
When the game started my focus was on Reberto Luongo. For the Canucks to win, I thought he just had to be average. When the Canucks scored 2:43 seconds into the game my confidence level grew. I thought it was a type of goal that could kick start a game and swing momentum. Alex Burrows second goal of the post season was the only goal that period. If the Canucks could hang on for 40 more minutes they would get their monkey off their back.
In the second period, the Canucks started to get a lot of good scoring chances thrown at rookie goaltender Corey Crawford. The Canucks out shot the Blackhawks 15-6 but still, the score remained 1-0. Going into the 3rd period I started to get nervous. I knew that Chicago was too good of a team to keep scoreless for the whole game and Luongo was bound to give up a goal on a luckly bounce.
In a series that had all the twists and turns, the third period had another twist. Early in the third period Alex Burrows was taken down on a breakaway. The referee signaled for a penalty shot. Alex Burrows moved in on goalie Cory Crawford but could not score. The game was still 1-0 Vancouver. The rest of the third period both teams traded chances but on one was able to find the back of the net.
With just over three minutes to go, Vancouver was rewarded a power play. If the Canucks could score on it they could pretty much seal the deal. At the very least they could kill 2 minutes off the clock. However, the Canucks were sloppy in the neutral zone and turned the puck over which led to a goal by Johnathan Towes that sent the game into overtime.
In the overtime intermission, I thought it was going to be a bad bounce that would end the Canucks season. I decided to watch the overtime period in the kitchen. I thought that was a good idea because that is where I watched Game 7 between the Canucks and Stars in 2007 and the Canucks won.
During overtime, Alex Burrows was called for a penalty. As bad as the officiating was in this series, I thought it was a good call. The Canucks dug deep and killed the penalty which gave them momentum. I was now feeling confident again. When Alex Burrows stole the pack and walked in to blast the knuckle puck past Corey Crawford I started to run around the house like a chicken with its head cut off.
Alex Burrows game winning goal sent Rogers Arena into bedlam. It depends how far the Canucks go but if the Canucks can make a cup run this year, it might be the biggest goal in Canucks history. A goal that for sure saved the Canucks from embarrassment.
Now that the Canucks were finally able to beat the Blackhawks, no one will care what happened in games four, five and six. April 26, 2011 will always be a great day in Canucks history. It was one of the most intense games in Canucks history. For me, I will remember this day the rest of my life. Some people call it luck, but I call it justice for all those times us Canucks fans have been heartbroken.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Canucks Search for Answers After Lopsided Loss
No team has ever gone 16-0 in the playoffs to win the Stanley Cap and if the Canucks are able to win the Stanley Cup, they won't either. The Presidents Trophy winning Vancouver Canucks will face their first bit of adversity of the 2011 Playoffs when they take the ice tomorrow night for game 5. If the Canucks are going to make a long run to the cup this spring, it will likely won't be their last bit of adversity they will face.
All that said, Canucks fans are starting to feel nervous after their loss last night to the defending Stanley Cup Champions, the Chicago Blackhawks. The Canucks showed little to know energy all night in their play and the 7-2 score painted the picture.
The Chicago Blackhawks were the complete opposite. From the opening face off the Blackhawks had more energy, more toughness and more emotion. For whatever reason last night that was the case in Game 4. If the Canucks want to wrap up the series in Vancouver in Game 5, they will have to play much better.
Why was Chicago so fired up for last nights game? It possibly could have been because of the return of Dave Bolland. He returned to the lineup after missing 17 games because of a concussion. He scored a goal an added three helpers on his way to become the first star of the hockey game.
Or it could have been the defending champs not wanting to be swept in front of their home fans. In fact, it has only happened twice where the defending Stanley Cup Champions got swept out of the playoffs in the first round.. The last time it happened was in 2003, when the then Mighty Ducks of Anaheim shocked the heavily favored Detroit Red Wings in four straight.
Time will tell what it was that gave Chicago such a spark last night. There have been only three teams in NHL history to come back from 3-0 down. Those three series were:
The chances are slim for Chicago to come back but it doesn't mean it's impossible. The Blackhawks still have their core players like Patrick Kane and Johnathon Toews to carry the load offensively. Also, on the back end they still have Duncan Kieth and Brian Campbell.
The good news for Vancouver is that they will be able to keep the twins away from Chicago's best checking line. In Game 4 the twins were a non factor to say the least. Getting Daniel and Hendrik away from them will be crucial. The Canucks are very tough to beat when the top line is clicking so having the last change should be a blessing for Alain Vigneault club.
The biggest answer the Canucks might be looking for is getting back home. The Canucks were the best home team in the Western Conference and should be fine as long as the Rogers Arena is electric tomorrow night. If the Canucks can get off to quick start and not allow Chicago in the game, the Canucks should be heading to the 2nd round of the playoffs for the third straight year. If not the Blackhawks have a chance to take the series back to Chicago and they might be on their way to pull off the impossible.
All that said, Canucks fans are starting to feel nervous after their loss last night to the defending Stanley Cup Champions, the Chicago Blackhawks. The Canucks showed little to know energy all night in their play and the 7-2 score painted the picture.
The Chicago Blackhawks were the complete opposite. From the opening face off the Blackhawks had more energy, more toughness and more emotion. For whatever reason last night that was the case in Game 4. If the Canucks want to wrap up the series in Vancouver in Game 5, they will have to play much better.
Why was Chicago so fired up for last nights game? It possibly could have been because of the return of Dave Bolland. He returned to the lineup after missing 17 games because of a concussion. He scored a goal an added three helpers on his way to become the first star of the hockey game.
Or it could have been the defending champs not wanting to be swept in front of their home fans. In fact, it has only happened twice where the defending Stanley Cup Champions got swept out of the playoffs in the first round.. The last time it happened was in 2003, when the then Mighty Ducks of Anaheim shocked the heavily favored Detroit Red Wings in four straight.
Time will tell what it was that gave Chicago such a spark last night. There have been only three teams in NHL history to come back from 3-0 down. Those three series were:
- Maple Leafs 4-3 Red Wings 1942
- Islanders 4-3 Penguins 1975
- Flyers 4-3 Bruins 2010
The chances are slim for Chicago to come back but it doesn't mean it's impossible. The Blackhawks still have their core players like Patrick Kane and Johnathon Toews to carry the load offensively. Also, on the back end they still have Duncan Kieth and Brian Campbell.
The good news for Vancouver is that they will be able to keep the twins away from Chicago's best checking line. In Game 4 the twins were a non factor to say the least. Getting Daniel and Hendrik away from them will be crucial. The Canucks are very tough to beat when the top line is clicking so having the last change should be a blessing for Alain Vigneault club.
The biggest answer the Canucks might be looking for is getting back home. The Canucks were the best home team in the Western Conference and should be fine as long as the Rogers Arena is electric tomorrow night. If the Canucks can get off to quick start and not allow Chicago in the game, the Canucks should be heading to the 2nd round of the playoffs for the third straight year. If not the Blackhawks have a chance to take the series back to Chicago and they might be on their way to pull off the impossible.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Alain Vigneault Faced With Some "Good Decisions"
Not often in life you are faced with some good decisions. If your Alain Vigneault he will have some good decisions to make before his Canucks take the ice for game 3 at the United Centre. The Canucks have a 2-0 series lead against the defending Stanley Cup champs, while no lead is safe the Canucks do have a healthy advantage in the Best of seven Western Conference Quarter Final. For Alain Vigneault to have decisions to make like he does is definitely a good thing at this time of year.
With Raffi Torres set to return from his four game suspension today, what will Alain Vigneault do with his lineup dilemma? Does he take Cody Hodgson out of lineup for Raffi Torres? Cody Hodgson has had two decent games to start the series. In game 1 he had 7: 38 seconds of ice time and recorded three shots on goal. In game 2 he was rewarded with 10:22 seconds of ice time and tallied an assist on the Vancouver Canucks third goal of the game late in the second period.
Or should Alain Vigneault take out Victor Oreskovich? Oreskovich is a energy guy who won't be afraid to drop the gloves to add a ignite a spark for his team. The Whitby, Ontario native was involved in the Kieth Ballard trade on the weekend of the draft back in June and has been a good addition to the team with adding some depth. Oreskovich has played both playoff games this series but has really been a non factor. The reason I see Alain Vigneault keeping Victor Oreskovich is for his toughness. With the Canucks leading 2-0 in the series, the Blackhawks might try to throw the body around to swing the momentum in their favor. Having Victor Oreskovich in the lineup might be important.
Does Alain Vigneault toy with the idea of putting Raffi Torres as a healthy scratch? Torres this year played in 80 out of the 82 games this year. He has 14 goals and added 15 assists over the regular season. Torres was a big piece in the Edmonton Oilers 2006 Stanley Cup run that ended in game 7 in Carolina. The only way I see Alain Vigneault keeping Raffi Torres out of the lineup is because of illness. Torres was fighting a stomach virus the last few days but he says he's ready to play.
Like Torres, Mikael Samuelsson has also been under the weather. In fact, Mikael Samuelsson missed game 2 because of the flu but is optimistic that he will be in the lineup for game 3. Samuelsson is an important player for the Canucks. He has playoff experience that should come in handy in a hostile environment like the United Centre.
If Mikael Samuelsson can't go, it is just another spot opener for one of the younger guys. If Samuelsson is able to go then he will surely be in the lineup. Samuelsson had a great playoffs last year scoring 8 goals and 7 assists in 12 Canuck playoff games last year.
No matter what choice Alain Vigneaul makes he can't go wrong. Each player that Alain Vigneault will choose from has some good sides to the player. In addition, all the players that Alain Vigneault will chose from he has confidence in. Over the course of the year all the players have had really good games. With a 2-0 series lead and lots of choices to make, Alain Vigneault can juggle his lineup and each decision he makes has a chance to be a good decision.
The game starts at 5pm and will be on TV on CBC, Versus and RDS.
With Raffi Torres set to return from his four game suspension today, what will Alain Vigneault do with his lineup dilemma? Does he take Cody Hodgson out of lineup for Raffi Torres? Cody Hodgson has had two decent games to start the series. In game 1 he had 7: 38 seconds of ice time and recorded three shots on goal. In game 2 he was rewarded with 10:22 seconds of ice time and tallied an assist on the Vancouver Canucks third goal of the game late in the second period.
Or should Alain Vigneault take out Victor Oreskovich? Oreskovich is a energy guy who won't be afraid to drop the gloves to add a ignite a spark for his team. The Whitby, Ontario native was involved in the Kieth Ballard trade on the weekend of the draft back in June and has been a good addition to the team with adding some depth. Oreskovich has played both playoff games this series but has really been a non factor. The reason I see Alain Vigneault keeping Victor Oreskovich is for his toughness. With the Canucks leading 2-0 in the series, the Blackhawks might try to throw the body around to swing the momentum in their favor. Having Victor Oreskovich in the lineup might be important.
Does Alain Vigneault toy with the idea of putting Raffi Torres as a healthy scratch? Torres this year played in 80 out of the 82 games this year. He has 14 goals and added 15 assists over the regular season. Torres was a big piece in the Edmonton Oilers 2006 Stanley Cup run that ended in game 7 in Carolina. The only way I see Alain Vigneault keeping Raffi Torres out of the lineup is because of illness. Torres was fighting a stomach virus the last few days but he says he's ready to play.
Like Torres, Mikael Samuelsson has also been under the weather. In fact, Mikael Samuelsson missed game 2 because of the flu but is optimistic that he will be in the lineup for game 3. Samuelsson is an important player for the Canucks. He has playoff experience that should come in handy in a hostile environment like the United Centre.
If Mikael Samuelsson can't go, it is just another spot opener for one of the younger guys. If Samuelsson is able to go then he will surely be in the lineup. Samuelsson had a great playoffs last year scoring 8 goals and 7 assists in 12 Canuck playoff games last year.
No matter what choice Alain Vigneaul makes he can't go wrong. Each player that Alain Vigneault will choose from has some good sides to the player. In addition, all the players that Alain Vigneault will chose from he has confidence in. Over the course of the year all the players have had really good games. With a 2-0 series lead and lots of choices to make, Alain Vigneault can juggle his lineup and each decision he makes has a chance to be a good decision.
The game starts at 5pm and will be on TV on CBC, Versus and RDS.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Canucks and Blackhawks ready to Write New Chapter in Rivalry
No matter which way you look at it, the Canucks and Blackhawks over the years have became intense rivals. It doesn't matter if your an old time hockey fan or a modern day hockey fan, if you like hockey you will learn to like this rivalry.
The Canucks and the Blackhawks have met four times in the playoffs. The first of those four meetings came in 1982 with the Canucks unexpected run to the cup. In the Conference Finals the Canucks found themselves playing the Chicago Blackhawks. The series started in Chicago in one of the loudest arenas in the NHL. The Canucks were not intimidated at all winning Game 1, 2-1 in 2OT. The Canucks had a 1-0 series lead and were three wins away from there first Stanley Cup appearance in franchise history.
In Game 2 of the series the Canucks found themselves trailing 3-1, with the Canucks shorthanded for the ninth time in the game. After Denis Savard made the game 4-1, Vancouver Canucks coach Roger Neilson decided to hold up a towel of signs of surrender. The referee wasn't to happy with him and ejected him and a few players who joined in. Neilson was fined 1,000 dollars for his act.
The fine did not dampen the Canucks playoff spirits. For Game 3, it was back in Vancouver at the Pacific Coliseum where a sold out crowed greeted the visiting Blackhawks with white towels. The tradition was called "Towel Power is still used today for Canuck Playoff games.
The Canucks went on and won the next three games to advance to the Stanley Cup Finals where they would get swept by the Islanders.
The Canucks and the Blackhawks would have to wait a full 13 years to renew there hate for each other. In 1995 it was the Blackhawks who got the better of the Canucks. Chicago would sweep Vancouver 4-0 in the Western Conference Semi Finals.
The Canucks would have to wait 14 years to seek redemption. In 2009 the Canucks hosted the youthful Blackhawks, which featured a handful of players from Western B.C.. Going into the series their was no clear favorite to win the series. Reberto Luongo came into the series on a unbelievable hot streak. In contrast, the Blackhawks were known as the comeback kings of the NHL playoffs.
The first three games was very exciting. Vancouver won games one and three. Going into Game four the pressure was on Chicago. With the Canucks leading 1-0 in the third period of game 4 the Canucks went into a defensive mode to try to hold onto a 1-0 lead. The choice to go into defensive mode was looking like the right choice until Martian Havlat scored a goal to tie the game a 1-1. In overtime, Andrew Ladd (who my Mom taught.) scored the winning goal to give the Blackhawks the Game 4 win and made what was a best of 7 to a best of 3. The Blackhawks ended up winning the next two games and the Canucks season ended with a very sour taste in their mouth.
The following year the Canucks got the match up they wanted in the 2nd Round. The Chicago Blackhawks this time were the better team and were poised for a cup run. However, in Game 1 of the series it looked like the Canucks were poised for a Stanley Cup run. They dominated Chicago at the United Centre on route to a 5-1 win. After game 1 in the series, the Blackhawks started to take control of the series. They won the next three games to take a commanding 3 games to one series lead. The Canucks stanched Game 5 back in Chicago but Chicago rapped up the series in Game 6 to advance to the Western Confreance Finals and eventually be named the Stanley Cup Champion.
For the third year in a row the Hawks and Canucks will battle again in the playoffs. This year it will be a round earlier and this time the Canucks will be the favorite. The Canucks come into the playoffs with the most points, most goals scored and the least goals against. It is the first time that has happened since the Montreal Canadians did that in 1976. The good news for Canucks fans is that Montreal won the Stanley cup that year.
The Canucks are the best team in the league by a long shot. The only question remains is will playing the Blackhawks for the third time in as many years hurt the Canucks or help them. Over the last decade, there has only been a handful of teams that have met in the playoffs three years in a row in the four main sports. The familiarity factor might favor the Blackhawks but on the flip side the Canucks might be due to beat the Blackhawks.
In the end I think the Canucks will prevail in the best of 7 western conference quarter final. Usually over a long seven game series, the best team comes out victorious. If the Canucks can use their depth to their advantage they should be able win the series. However, the Blackhawks are a well coached team coached by Joel Qunneville. If he can use his coaching skills to out coach Alain Vigneault then Chicago might have a chance to pull off the shocking upset but other then that I see the Canucks wearing down the Blackhawks as the series moves on.
My Pick: Canucks in 7
The Canucks and the Blackhawks have met four times in the playoffs. The first of those four meetings came in 1982 with the Canucks unexpected run to the cup. In the Conference Finals the Canucks found themselves playing the Chicago Blackhawks. The series started in Chicago in one of the loudest arenas in the NHL. The Canucks were not intimidated at all winning Game 1, 2-1 in 2OT. The Canucks had a 1-0 series lead and were three wins away from there first Stanley Cup appearance in franchise history.
In Game 2 of the series the Canucks found themselves trailing 3-1, with the Canucks shorthanded for the ninth time in the game. After Denis Savard made the game 4-1, Vancouver Canucks coach Roger Neilson decided to hold up a towel of signs of surrender. The referee wasn't to happy with him and ejected him and a few players who joined in. Neilson was fined 1,000 dollars for his act.The fine did not dampen the Canucks playoff spirits. For Game 3, it was back in Vancouver at the Pacific Coliseum where a sold out crowed greeted the visiting Blackhawks with white towels. The tradition was called "Towel Power is still used today for Canuck Playoff games.
The Canucks went on and won the next three games to advance to the Stanley Cup Finals where they would get swept by the Islanders.
The Canucks and the Blackhawks would have to wait a full 13 years to renew there hate for each other. In 1995 it was the Blackhawks who got the better of the Canucks. Chicago would sweep Vancouver 4-0 in the Western Conference Semi Finals.
The Canucks would have to wait 14 years to seek redemption. In 2009 the Canucks hosted the youthful Blackhawks, which featured a handful of players from Western B.C.. Going into the series their was no clear favorite to win the series. Reberto Luongo came into the series on a unbelievable hot streak. In contrast, the Blackhawks were known as the comeback kings of the NHL playoffs.
The first three games was very exciting. Vancouver won games one and three. Going into Game four the pressure was on Chicago. With the Canucks leading 1-0 in the third period of game 4 the Canucks went into a defensive mode to try to hold onto a 1-0 lead. The choice to go into defensive mode was looking like the right choice until Martian Havlat scored a goal to tie the game a 1-1. In overtime, Andrew Ladd (who my Mom taught.) scored the winning goal to give the Blackhawks the Game 4 win and made what was a best of 7 to a best of 3. The Blackhawks ended up winning the next two games and the Canucks season ended with a very sour taste in their mouth.
The following year the Canucks got the match up they wanted in the 2nd Round. The Chicago Blackhawks this time were the better team and were poised for a cup run. However, in Game 1 of the series it looked like the Canucks were poised for a Stanley Cup run. They dominated Chicago at the United Centre on route to a 5-1 win. After game 1 in the series, the Blackhawks started to take control of the series. They won the next three games to take a commanding 3 games to one series lead. The Canucks stanched Game 5 back in Chicago but Chicago rapped up the series in Game 6 to advance to the Western Confreance Finals and eventually be named the Stanley Cup Champion.
For the third year in a row the Hawks and Canucks will battle again in the playoffs. This year it will be a round earlier and this time the Canucks will be the favorite. The Canucks come into the playoffs with the most points, most goals scored and the least goals against. It is the first time that has happened since the Montreal Canadians did that in 1976. The good news for Canucks fans is that Montreal won the Stanley cup that year.
The Canucks are the best team in the league by a long shot. The only question remains is will playing the Blackhawks for the third time in as many years hurt the Canucks or help them. Over the last decade, there has only been a handful of teams that have met in the playoffs three years in a row in the four main sports. The familiarity factor might favor the Blackhawks but on the flip side the Canucks might be due to beat the Blackhawks.
In the end I think the Canucks will prevail in the best of 7 western conference quarter final. Usually over a long seven game series, the best team comes out victorious. If the Canucks can use their depth to their advantage they should be able win the series. However, the Blackhawks are a well coached team coached by Joel Qunneville. If he can use his coaching skills to out coach Alain Vigneault then Chicago might have a chance to pull off the shocking upset but other then that I see the Canucks wearing down the Blackhawks as the series moves on.
My Pick: Canucks in 7
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)