The Metro bustled with hockey sweaters once more. A few Ovechkin Jerseys peppered the Gallery Place/Chinatown platforms, a few more Hershey Jerseys than normal rounded the rest. Fans gathered to catch a glimpse of professional hockey played once again in the District. Unfortunately, it was not the venomous Penguins come to town to take on the beloved home town Caps. Nor any team in the collective 30 teams of the National Hockey League made their presence tonight at the phone booth.
"It's hockey," A fan said to me as he waited in line for his first beer of the 2012-13 "so called" season at Verizon Center. "I can't run up to Hershey with my family like some can, so we are pretty hard pressed for some action on the ice around here."
It was an announced sell out crowd at the arena where the Capitals once played. Although, there seemed to be a few missing patrons in the stands who failed to show for the AHL Showcase game presented by GEICO. A game featuring the AHL affiliates of the Washington Capitals (Hershey Bears) and the Anaheim Ducks (Norfolk Admirals). Even though it was an ice full of professionals, it was different and somewhat distant from what Capitals fans were used to.
"There is no Ovechkin, no Backstrom," A fan quip to his friend as they walked the concourse between periods. "It is like hockey lite."
Fans were also distracted, checking smart phones through out the game not just to smirk at the snide tweets about the action on the ice, but to get the latest coming out of New York on the future of the League's season. Even as the game continued, the talks between the players and NHL executives blew up in just an hour over a miscommunication. The owners thought they had a yes or no on a proposal, the union thought they were still negotiating. The optimism of a full season quickly faded before the Bears and Admirals took the ice for the second period.
A bittersweet occasion as the Bears overtook the Admirals in a 2-1 victory. Even before the final horn sounded, many in the building knew of the talks blowing up in a hotel north of here. The air of disdain towards players and owners seemed to take away from the night's festivities. Fans wondered if they were ever going to be back to see their hometown heroes take to the ice again. In a building that couldn't hide its purpose, the home for the Washington Capitals, seemed even more empty as fans dispersed.
"I don't know if we will be back," A season ticket holder told me as her family and the crowd migrated out of the building. "What ever their differences are seems minute when compared to what my kids want to see, they want to see their team. They can't, and they don't know why."
Showing posts with label Hershey Bears. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Hershey Bears. Show all posts
Thursday, December 06, 2012
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Back
So I took a few days off to enjoy time with my wife and the little one. I don't make any apologies for that, but I have been (for the most part) in Hockey limbo until this weekend. Boy, a lot has happened. From Nick Backstrom signing a monster contract and some speculation on what the Caps plan to do this off season to the remainder of the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs, there is a lot for us to catch up on.
Big Contract Player
It's old news, but Nick Backstrom was signed to a 10 year, $67 million dollar contract. Backstrom's new deal escalates from $6 million to $8 million and breaks down each year like this: 6, 6, 6, 6, 6.5, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 7.5 and 8 according to Tarik on his blog.
It gives the Caps the room they need early, but it's a tougher contract to trade later in his career (if the Capitals are inclined to do so). That pretty much means Backstrom is a main figure in DC for the next ten years. It's a great signing for the Caps, who made a similar 10 year deal with Alex Ovechkin although that was up in the $9 million range. Per Wash Post:
Stay At Home
TSN.ca is reporting that Anton Volchenkov will be changing the license plates on his beamer to Washington DC Plates (does he drive a beamer?). While the stay-at-home defenseman Volchenkov would be a great addition, the contract TSN.ca puts him in is a $5 million with bonuses. That would squeeze the Caps to the limit salary cap-wise.
The Caps (as of today) are sitting pretty tight to the $56.8 million ceiling (somewhere around the $55 million range including Backstrom's new deal). Of course things can and will change over the summer.
Who Knew?
Former Capitals' prospect Jakub Klepis scored on a pass from Jaromir Jagr as the Czech Republic stall Russia's bid for a second straight gold medal at the IIHF World Championships. Russia's roster featured a beefed up NHL line up that included Alex Oveckin, Evgeni Malkin, Ilya Kovalchuk, Datsyuk and Sergei Gonchar, but were not able to solve Tomas Vokoun as the CR's win gold with a 2-1 win.
Klepis was released by the team to play in the KHL amid some trade rumors concerning him in '08.
Always A Bridesmaid...
Phrases like "Shaking loose the playoff monkey on their backs" have been suddenly recanted concerning the San Jose Sharks. The veteran squad of Patrick Marleau, Joe Thornton and Dan Boyle were swept away by youngsters Johnathan Towes, Patrick Kane and Anntii Niemi of the Chicago Blackhawks. The Sharks playoff woes continue, apparently getting out of the second round is a bar raiser for them. Maybe their fans need to boo the Canadian Anthem again.
Always the Bride...
Hershey Bears advance to the Calder Cup finals for the fourth time in the past five years. Sigh.
That is all I got for now. I hope to come back with some original content, and a college radio station is begging for an interview with me (talk about desperate).
Until then, enjoy the playoffs.
Big Contract Player
It's old news, but Nick Backstrom was signed to a 10 year, $67 million dollar contract. Backstrom's new deal escalates from $6 million to $8 million and breaks down each year like this: 6, 6, 6, 6, 6.5, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 7.5 and 8 according to Tarik on his blog.
It gives the Caps the room they need early, but it's a tougher contract to trade later in his career (if the Capitals are inclined to do so). That pretty much means Backstrom is a main figure in DC for the next ten years. It's a great signing for the Caps, who made a similar 10 year deal with Alex Ovechkin although that was up in the $9 million range. Per Wash Post:
"I wanted 10 years, I wanted the long term and finally got it. I think it is good that we're together." -Nick BackstromThe Caps also had a minor signing of prospect and 2009 first round draft pick Marcus Johansson to a entry level contract.
"We went back and forth. Different trends were discussed. But players want different things sometimes. Nicky was ready to do 10 years, he was interested in doing 10 years. We discussed it and felt that that would work for us if we could get the right number." -GM George McPhee
Stay At Home
TSN.ca is reporting that Anton Volchenkov will be changing the license plates on his beamer to Washington DC Plates (does he drive a beamer?). While the stay-at-home defenseman Volchenkov would be a great addition, the contract TSN.ca puts him in is a $5 million with bonuses. That would squeeze the Caps to the limit salary cap-wise.
The Caps (as of today) are sitting pretty tight to the $56.8 million ceiling (somewhere around the $55 million range including Backstrom's new deal). Of course things can and will change over the summer.
Who Knew?
Former Capitals' prospect Jakub Klepis scored on a pass from Jaromir Jagr as the Czech Republic stall Russia's bid for a second straight gold medal at the IIHF World Championships. Russia's roster featured a beefed up NHL line up that included Alex Oveckin, Evgeni Malkin, Ilya Kovalchuk, Datsyuk and Sergei Gonchar, but were not able to solve Tomas Vokoun as the CR's win gold with a 2-1 win.
Klepis was released by the team to play in the KHL amid some trade rumors concerning him in '08.
Always A Bridesmaid...
Phrases like "Shaking loose the playoff monkey on their backs" have been suddenly recanted concerning the San Jose Sharks. The veteran squad of Patrick Marleau, Joe Thornton and Dan Boyle were swept away by youngsters Johnathan Towes, Patrick Kane and Anntii Niemi of the Chicago Blackhawks. The Sharks playoff woes continue, apparently getting out of the second round is a bar raiser for them. Maybe their fans need to boo the Canadian Anthem again.
Always the Bride...
Hershey Bears advance to the Calder Cup finals for the fourth time in the past five years. Sigh.
That is all I got for now. I hope to come back with some original content, and a college radio station is begging for an interview with me (talk about desperate).
Until then, enjoy the playoffs.
Thursday, April 01, 2010
3 In Hershey Get AHL Honors
The Washington Capitals show off their depth as three Bears make the AHL's All-Star Teams. Per Washington Caps PR:
The Hershey Bears have been creating havoc on the history books as the team sails to new heights (and probably another Calder Trophy [knock on wood]).
Caps Notes:
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Hershey Bears forwards Keith Aucoin, Alexandre Giroux and Andrew Gordon have been named to the American Hockey League (AHL) All-Star Teams, as voted by AHL coaches, players and media in each of the league’s 29 member cities, the AHL announced today.
Aucoin and Giroux were named to the first team – both for the second year in a row – while Gordon was named to the second team. Aucoin, Giroux and Gordon have all appeared in games for the Capitals at some point this season.
Aucoin (oh-KOIN), 31, established a career high with his 100th point of the season Wednesday night. The Waltham, Mass., native, who signed a two-year contract last month that will keep him in the Washington organization through the 2011-12 season, leads the AHL in points and assists and ranks fourth in goals. This is the fourth appearance on an AHL All-Star Team for Aucoin, the highest scoring American-born player in AHL history.
Giroux (jhi-ROO), 28, last season’s AHL scoring champion and most valuable player, leads the league in goals with 44 after scoring twice Wednesday against Syracuse. He scored his 300th career AHL goal on Sunday and has scored 104 goals in the last two seasons with six games remaining in 2009-10. He is currently second in the AHL in scoring with 97 points.
Gordon, 24, has been named to the league’s all-star team for the first time. Washington’s seventh-round choice, 197th overall, in the 2004 Entry Draft, is currently third in the league in goals with 36. He is also tied for the league lead in power play goals (18).
The Hershey Bears have been creating havoc on the history books as the team sails to new heights (and probably another Calder Trophy [knock on wood]).
Caps Notes:
- Brooks Laich makes his return tonight for the Capitals against the Atlanta Thrashers. Caps still are dealing with the injury bug for others though, John Carlson (upper body), Quintin Laing (lower body), Boyd Gordon (back injury), Scott Walker (knee) and Brendan Morrison (groin) are out.
Sunday, February 07, 2010
Epic Game Marks Caps 14th Straight Win
Capitals 5, Penguins 4 OT
Game Summary
The story could have been about the Penguins' journey to Washington DC after two and half feet of snow that fell in a blizzard the day before. Or it could have been about Sidney Crosby's dominance over the Washington Capitals with two goals in the first period. Or it could have been about Jordan Staal's late in the second period goals nearly putting the Caps away for good and going up 4-1. Instead, this story is about a winning streak that 14 and got some help from #8.
Alex Ovechkin would be the first Capital of the year to net a hattrick, Eric Fehr got a timely goal late in the second period and Mike Knuble scored the game winner in overtime. And the winning streak continues.
The game had a playoff feel to it as both teams came out flying. It had a little bit of everything. "It's what people paid to see," said Caps' bench boss Bruce Boudreau. "When the superstars shine and there is tension and excitment and there is physical play and you can see the passion on both sides. That is what hockey is all about."
It was all the NBC analysts could talk about as the Penguins jumped to a quick 2-0 lead in the first period. The Penguins were sending a message. The Caps were turning the puck over in the neutral zone and the Penguins were quick to jump on the play. Crosby benefited of a turnover scoring unassisted. Then he scored on the power play moments later as the Caps missed played collapsing on Evgeni Malkin and leaving #87 wide open. Just like that, the Pens were up 2-0.
Ovi would open the scoring in for the Capitals mid-way through the second period. He took a pass from Jeff Schultz up the middle and shot the puck so hard, it shattered the camera box in the back of the net. There would be a delay after the goal as they replaced the shattered shield.
But the Penguins would not let up on their attack. Staal, brother to Marc (Rangers) and Eric ('Canes), scored a pair of goals to stretch the lead to 4-1. It seemed that Eric Fehr's goal later in the period wouldn't matter much as the Caps got into penalty trouble. Late in the period they found themselves down two men as the period finished.
The Caps would kill the penalty and then turn on the offense in the 3rd period.
"The crowd kept pushing us in the third period," Ovechkin said. "We just kept going and kept going. It was pretty sick."
Ovechkin took over the game netting a goal after Tom Poti's shot was knocked down in front. Ovi's quick hands propelled the puck past Marc Andre Fluery's pads. Then he buried an off speed shot from the face off to beat the Penguins' goaltender to tie the game. Just like that, the Penguins watched a three goal advantage slip away.
The Penguins would not quit, pressuring the Caps late. Even with the travel difficulties the Penguins endured, they seemed to keep the Caps on their heels late in the game. "I felt our team had plenty of jump," Penguins' coach, Dan Bylsma said about using the tough travel into Washington. "I think our guys looked good, it didn't have anything to do with [the travel]." But they couldn't convert and the game would go into overtime.
In overtime, both teams had their chances. Brooks Orpik would take a high sticking call 2:26 into overtime. Orpik caught Alex Semin high after Semin got rid of the puck. "He’s a baby," Orpik told reporters after the game. "I don’t know [if it was a high stick] but he does that all game long. I got zero respect for the kid."
But a penalty was called and it would only take 13 seconds later when Ovechkin rang a shot off the post and the puck trickled back into the blue paint under Fluery. Mike Knuble wins the game as he slides the rebound in under the Penguins' goaltender. It capped a 3 goal deficit and keeps the Capitals' win streak alive.
The game had it's share of chippiness and some cheap plays. Craig Adams pushed Ovechkin into the boards in the first, the All Star fell awkwardly into the dasher. Adams would not be called for the penalty, but Mike Knuble came to the rescue. Knuble would receive two minutes for instigating as well as a 5 for fighting, 10 misconduct.
The Caps will get a day off tomorrow before facing Montreal and Ottawa on Wednesday and Thursday respectively. They are have just three games before the Olympic break. If they win against the Habs and Sens, they have a chance to tie the NHL's record for longest win streak at 17.
Caps Notes
Game Summary
The story could have been about the Penguins' journey to Washington DC after two and half feet of snow that fell in a blizzard the day before. Or it could have been about Sidney Crosby's dominance over the Washington Capitals with two goals in the first period. Or it could have been about Jordan Staal's late in the second period goals nearly putting the Caps away for good and going up 4-1. Instead, this story is about a winning streak that 14 and got some help from #8.
Alex Ovechkin would be the first Capital of the year to net a hattrick, Eric Fehr got a timely goal late in the second period and Mike Knuble scored the game winner in overtime. And the winning streak continues.
The game had a playoff feel to it as both teams came out flying. It had a little bit of everything. "It's what people paid to see," said Caps' bench boss Bruce Boudreau. "When the superstars shine and there is tension and excitment and there is physical play and you can see the passion on both sides. That is what hockey is all about."
It was all the NBC analysts could talk about as the Penguins jumped to a quick 2-0 lead in the first period. The Penguins were sending a message. The Caps were turning the puck over in the neutral zone and the Penguins were quick to jump on the play. Crosby benefited of a turnover scoring unassisted. Then he scored on the power play moments later as the Caps missed played collapsing on Evgeni Malkin and leaving #87 wide open. Just like that, the Pens were up 2-0.
Ovi would open the scoring in for the Capitals mid-way through the second period. He took a pass from Jeff Schultz up the middle and shot the puck so hard, it shattered the camera box in the back of the net. There would be a delay after the goal as they replaced the shattered shield.
But the Penguins would not let up on their attack. Staal, brother to Marc (Rangers) and Eric ('Canes), scored a pair of goals to stretch the lead to 4-1. It seemed that Eric Fehr's goal later in the period wouldn't matter much as the Caps got into penalty trouble. Late in the period they found themselves down two men as the period finished.
The Caps would kill the penalty and then turn on the offense in the 3rd period.
"The crowd kept pushing us in the third period," Ovechkin said. "We just kept going and kept going. It was pretty sick."
Ovechkin took over the game netting a goal after Tom Poti's shot was knocked down in front. Ovi's quick hands propelled the puck past Marc Andre Fluery's pads. Then he buried an off speed shot from the face off to beat the Penguins' goaltender to tie the game. Just like that, the Penguins watched a three goal advantage slip away.
The Penguins would not quit, pressuring the Caps late. Even with the travel difficulties the Penguins endured, they seemed to keep the Caps on their heels late in the game. "I felt our team had plenty of jump," Penguins' coach, Dan Bylsma said about using the tough travel into Washington. "I think our guys looked good, it didn't have anything to do with [the travel]." But they couldn't convert and the game would go into overtime.
In overtime, both teams had their chances. Brooks Orpik would take a high sticking call 2:26 into overtime. Orpik caught Alex Semin high after Semin got rid of the puck. "He’s a baby," Orpik told reporters after the game. "I don’t know [if it was a high stick] but he does that all game long. I got zero respect for the kid."
But a penalty was called and it would only take 13 seconds later when Ovechkin rang a shot off the post and the puck trickled back into the blue paint under Fluery. Mike Knuble wins the game as he slides the rebound in under the Penguins' goaltender. It capped a 3 goal deficit and keeps the Capitals' win streak alive.
The game had it's share of chippiness and some cheap plays. Craig Adams pushed Ovechkin into the boards in the first, the All Star fell awkwardly into the dasher. Adams would not be called for the penalty, but Mike Knuble came to the rescue. Knuble would receive two minutes for instigating as well as a 5 for fighting, 10 misconduct.
The Caps will get a day off tomorrow before facing Montreal and Ottawa on Wednesday and Thursday respectively. They are have just three games before the Olympic break. If they win against the Habs and Sens, they have a chance to tie the NHL's record for longest win streak at 17.
Caps Notes
- In a weird coincidence, the Capitals farm team Hershey Bears found themselves down by three goals to come back and win it against Pittsburgh's farm team Wilkes/Barre Penguins on a hattrick by Mathieu Perreault to win 5-4.
- Nick Backstrom and Mike Knuble both had a pair of points (Backstrom 2a, Knuble 1g, 1a).
- Crosby tied Ovechkin for the goals lead in the NHL with his two goals, just to see Ovechkin score three goals and lead by as much.
- Ovechkin is the first player with 40 goals every season since the lockout (only Ilya Kovalchuk can join him) via @washcaps.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Just A Morning Skate
Group A took the ice this morning at Kettler and I had a chance to check out the kids. It turned out to be a grueling two hour practice where the coaching staff threw just about everything they had at the prospects attending the summer development camp. Some struggled, some excelled and others impressed.
Of those that stood out, for me, were Mathieu Perrault, big guy Joe Finley, Joel Broda and Trevor Bruess. As well as goaltender Braden Holtby. For Perrault, this is old hat (his third camp to date if I am not mistaken). Not much phased him through the whole practice. He stayed consistent and played tough.
Finley seemed to welcome the challenge in defending Perrault during a one on one drill. Finley is all about size, at 6'7" and 240 you can hardly miss him on the defensive line. But Finley doesn't have Perrault's speed so Finley had to cheat a little around cones and make more direct cuts to keep up with the speedy forward. At one point Finley caught up with Perrault only to deflect his shot right up into his face below the visor (jaw or chin). Finley shook it off and didn't even miss the next round.
When they got to the 5 on 3 and 5 on 5 drills, Finley wanted to show case his physicality. He missed two hits at center ice and the one good hit he got in took him out of position, leaving his linemates high and dry. I'll chalk it up as rusty-ness for now.
Joel Broda also impressed. He has a nose for the net and doesn't shy away from being physical in front of it. His linemate, Trevor Bruess, was the agitator of the day in the 5 on 5 drills. He was also involved in most of the hitting (both giving and receiving). Bruess loves to cut off wingers, get in the grill of the defenders and create havoc in the neutral zone. And all of it for practice. I can't wait to see what he does for the scrimmages.
Those having a tough time were players that were none too familiar with Bruce Boudreau's deep need for perfection and their first time to a NHL development camp. You can say it was nerves and complex drills thrown at them on the first day.
"That was real competitive. Coach Boudreau is a really good coach. You better have your thinking cap on and make sure you listen." Trevor Bruess tweeted after the practice had ended.
Zach Miskovic had a tough run of practice. Often falling behind or asking others what was going on. Garrett Mitchell also seemed lost in the crowd. I was watching for him to step in, be more aggressive and physical, he choose the "wait and see" strategy a few times. As did many of the first timers who were trying to get it all down. Nils Backstrom, an invitee, looked out of shape at the end of practice as he was getting out skated by the Holtby the goaltender during the last skating drill.
Speaking of Holtby, this has been a different goaltender from the year before. Last summer, the then 19 year old looked a bit out wide eyed and tentative. You could see the potential he had. This summer, it's plain to see how much he has grown. Not only has he filled out his pads, but he is making smarter decisions with the puck. He is calm and collected and he came up with some very solid saves through out the two hour session. He did have some trouble going side to side and challenging a bit, but it's easy to see that Holtby could be in chocolate brown next season.
Dan Dunn was the other goaltender and he looked much as he did last summer. Good size, solid fundamentals. Besides that, nothing to fancy. He is has a solid butterfly that is hard to beat (because of his size 6'5", 200 lbs.). Dunn and Holtby still have some growing to do, mainly in the rebound department, Holtby more than Dunn. But camp is still young.
"I was rusty out there," Holtby tweeted after the workout. "It's a feeling-out process for most of us on the first day. And the first bag skate always hurts."
I was only able to take in the morning skate, I will be back out to Kettler tomorrow morning to take a look at Group B. You can always follow me and my observations on my Twitter account: twitter.com/pckhdsthghts.
Caps notes:
Of those that stood out, for me, were Mathieu Perrault, big guy Joe Finley, Joel Broda and Trevor Bruess. As well as goaltender Braden Holtby. For Perrault, this is old hat (his third camp to date if I am not mistaken). Not much phased him through the whole practice. He stayed consistent and played tough.
Finley seemed to welcome the challenge in defending Perrault during a one on one drill. Finley is all about size, at 6'7" and 240 you can hardly miss him on the defensive line. But Finley doesn't have Perrault's speed so Finley had to cheat a little around cones and make more direct cuts to keep up with the speedy forward. At one point Finley caught up with Perrault only to deflect his shot right up into his face below the visor (jaw or chin). Finley shook it off and didn't even miss the next round.
When they got to the 5 on 3 and 5 on 5 drills, Finley wanted to show case his physicality. He missed two hits at center ice and the one good hit he got in took him out of position, leaving his linemates high and dry. I'll chalk it up as rusty-ness for now.
Joel Broda also impressed. He has a nose for the net and doesn't shy away from being physical in front of it. His linemate, Trevor Bruess, was the agitator of the day in the 5 on 5 drills. He was also involved in most of the hitting (both giving and receiving). Bruess loves to cut off wingers, get in the grill of the defenders and create havoc in the neutral zone. And all of it for practice. I can't wait to see what he does for the scrimmages.
Those having a tough time were players that were none too familiar with Bruce Boudreau's deep need for perfection and their first time to a NHL development camp. You can say it was nerves and complex drills thrown at them on the first day.
"That was real competitive. Coach Boudreau is a really good coach. You better have your thinking cap on and make sure you listen." Trevor Bruess tweeted after the practice had ended.
Zach Miskovic had a tough run of practice. Often falling behind or asking others what was going on. Garrett Mitchell also seemed lost in the crowd. I was watching for him to step in, be more aggressive and physical, he choose the "wait and see" strategy a few times. As did many of the first timers who were trying to get it all down. Nils Backstrom, an invitee, looked out of shape at the end of practice as he was getting out skated by the Holtby the goaltender during the last skating drill.
Speaking of Holtby, this has been a different goaltender from the year before. Last summer, the then 19 year old looked a bit out wide eyed and tentative. You could see the potential he had. This summer, it's plain to see how much he has grown. Not only has he filled out his pads, but he is making smarter decisions with the puck. He is calm and collected and he came up with some very solid saves through out the two hour session. He did have some trouble going side to side and challenging a bit, but it's easy to see that Holtby could be in chocolate brown next season.
Dan Dunn was the other goaltender and he looked much as he did last summer. Good size, solid fundamentals. Besides that, nothing to fancy. He is has a solid butterfly that is hard to beat (because of his size 6'5", 200 lbs.). Dunn and Holtby still have some growing to do, mainly in the rebound department, Holtby more than Dunn. But camp is still young.
"I was rusty out there," Holtby tweeted after the workout. "It's a feeling-out process for most of us on the first day. And the first bag skate always hurts."
I was only able to take in the morning skate, I will be back out to Kettler tomorrow morning to take a look at Group B. You can always follow me and my observations on my Twitter account: twitter.com/pckhdsthghts.
Caps notes:
- George McPhee announced today the hiring of Mark French as head coach of the Capitals' farm team, the Hershey Bears. French was in town for the development camp. The Capitals have put up a few of the coach's comments up on their video page.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Well... Duh
The Capitals held off announcing Jay Leach's replacement after that replacement won the Calder Cup. Now that Bob Woods is at the top of his game (much like his predecessor in Hershey) the Caps offered up the assistant coach gig with the big league team.
Woods, 41, is coming off a Hershey Bear championship when he took over the reigns for Bruce Boudreau in chocolate town. As head bench boss he lead the Bears to a 49-23-2 record (first place finish in the East with a 106 pts. and 296 goals for) in the '08-'09 season and was 16-6 this past postseason with a Calder Cup to show for it.
As a player, Woods never saw a day in the NHL. He spent most of his playing career in the ECHL and won the Kelly Cup under Boudreau in 1999 with the Mississippi Sea Wolves (he was listed as a player/assistant coach). He was also a brief roller hockey star from '94 - '97. Roller hockey, sweet! (Incidentally, Glen Metropolit was also in the RHI. Who knew?)
It was rumored that Woods was the front runner for Leach's job. That rumor became truth today.
Woods, 41, is coming off a Hershey Bear championship when he took over the reigns for Bruce Boudreau in chocolate town. As head bench boss he lead the Bears to a 49-23-2 record (first place finish in the East with a 106 pts. and 296 goals for) in the '08-'09 season and was 16-6 this past postseason with a Calder Cup to show for it.
As a player, Woods never saw a day in the NHL. He spent most of his playing career in the ECHL and won the Kelly Cup under Boudreau in 1999 with the Mississippi Sea Wolves (he was listed as a player/assistant coach). He was also a brief roller hockey star from '94 - '97. Roller hockey, sweet! (Incidentally, Glen Metropolit was also in the RHI. Who knew?)
It was rumored that Woods was the front runner for Leach's job. That rumor became truth today.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
A Double Cup Friday
Congratulations to the Pittsburgh Penguins on winning the Stanley Cup. You can call it sweet revenge as the Pens defeat the Detroit Red Wings on their ice a year after they lost the Cup on their ice. Boy, did Marion Hossa turn out to be a bad penny. Evgeni Malkin wins MVP honors (the first Russian to do so), although they should have given it to Max Talbot for his clutch goals in the finals or Rob Scuderi for his goaltending prowess.
However (and even more importantly), congratulations to the Hershey Bears on winning their tenth AHL championship last night. They beat the Manitoba Moose on their ice 4-1 to close out the series 4 games to two and hoisting the Calder Cup. Again, the Capitals top development team wins a championship, their second in four years.
Michal Neuvirth earned MVP honors as he posted a 16-6 record with only a 1.19 GAA, a .932 save percentage and four shutouts in the playoffs. He was the big reason for the Bears' championship run, not bad for a player that started the season in the ECHL with the South Carolina Stingrays. In game six he made 24 stops on 25 shots by the Moose. Neuvirth makes the Capitals extremely deep in the goaltending department with Semyon Varlamov, Jose Theodore, Brent Johnson (if the Caps decide to resign him) and a few other prospects.
The Bears got off to a great start in the first, putting the Moose up against a wall with a 3-0 lead in the opening period. Goals by Andrew Gordon, Chris Bourque and Alex Giroux. It was Giroux's playoff leading 15th goal, 28th point. The Moose were able to get a goal in the second, but the Bears held their 3-1 lead through half of the second period and through the third, eventually icing the game with an empty netter scored by Keith Aucoin.
The tandem of Stephan Kronwall and Dean Arsene lead to both players getting a +3 on the game, the Bears' best. Bourque had a goal and an assist as well as the game's number one star. Kyle Wilson had a pair of assists and also was the game's number 3 star.
The last time the Bears won the Calder Cup, many of those players went on to make the Capitals' squad: Mike Green, David Steckel, Eric Fehr, Brooks Laich, Tomas Fleischmann and Boyd Gordon (you could include Jakub Klepis in that list before he went off to play in the KHL). The Bears beat the the Milwaukee Admirals 4 games to two in that series as well. In their game 6 they also jumped up to a 3-0 lead in the first period and went on to win the game 5-1.
Bob Woods, rumored to be in the hunt for Jay Leach's old job, took the Bears to the promise land in just his second year at the helm. He also lead them to a Eastern Conference best 53-22-2-3 record finishing with 111 points.
Highlights of the Bears record breaking tenth AHL championship can be found here. Bryan Helmer, the Bears' captain accepted the Calder Cup along with assistant captains Aucoin and Quintin Laing.
The state of Pennsylvania has to be beaming with pride as they have won two hockey championships (Penguins: Stanley Cup, Bears: Calder Cup), a NHL championship (Steelers) and a MLB championship (Phillies). Pretty impressive in the same year. Now can we stop with all the "Boo hoo, PA teams never win" crap.
However (and even more importantly), congratulations to the Hershey Bears on winning their tenth AHL championship last night. They beat the Manitoba Moose on their ice 4-1 to close out the series 4 games to two and hoisting the Calder Cup. Again, the Capitals top development team wins a championship, their second in four years.
Michal Neuvirth earned MVP honors as he posted a 16-6 record with only a 1.19 GAA, a .932 save percentage and four shutouts in the playoffs. He was the big reason for the Bears' championship run, not bad for a player that started the season in the ECHL with the South Carolina Stingrays. In game six he made 24 stops on 25 shots by the Moose. Neuvirth makes the Capitals extremely deep in the goaltending department with Semyon Varlamov, Jose Theodore, Brent Johnson (if the Caps decide to resign him) and a few other prospects.
The Bears got off to a great start in the first, putting the Moose up against a wall with a 3-0 lead in the opening period. Goals by Andrew Gordon, Chris Bourque and Alex Giroux. It was Giroux's playoff leading 15th goal, 28th point. The Moose were able to get a goal in the second, but the Bears held their 3-1 lead through half of the second period and through the third, eventually icing the game with an empty netter scored by Keith Aucoin.
The tandem of Stephan Kronwall and Dean Arsene lead to both players getting a +3 on the game, the Bears' best. Bourque had a goal and an assist as well as the game's number one star. Kyle Wilson had a pair of assists and also was the game's number 3 star.
The last time the Bears won the Calder Cup, many of those players went on to make the Capitals' squad: Mike Green, David Steckel, Eric Fehr, Brooks Laich, Tomas Fleischmann and Boyd Gordon (you could include Jakub Klepis in that list before he went off to play in the KHL). The Bears beat the the Milwaukee Admirals 4 games to two in that series as well. In their game 6 they also jumped up to a 3-0 lead in the first period and went on to win the game 5-1.
Bob Woods, rumored to be in the hunt for Jay Leach's old job, took the Bears to the promise land in just his second year at the helm. He also lead them to a Eastern Conference best 53-22-2-3 record finishing with 111 points.
Highlights of the Bears record breaking tenth AHL championship can be found here. Bryan Helmer, the Bears' captain accepted the Calder Cup along with assistant captains Aucoin and Quintin Laing.
The state of Pennsylvania has to be beaming with pride as they have won two hockey championships (Penguins: Stanley Cup, Bears: Calder Cup), a NHL championship (Steelers) and a MLB championship (Phillies). Pretty impressive in the same year. Now can we stop with all the "Boo hoo, PA teams never win" crap.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Cup Crazy... Take 2
At least one Cup will be awarded tonight. Both the NHL and AHL have games in which the Stanley Cup will be awarded and the Calder Cup could be awarded. Unlike last time, it will not happen in the state of Pennsylvania.
The Detroit Red Wings and the Pittsburgh Penguins will battle it out at Joe Louis Arena in a series deciding game seven. At this point this game is a coin flip, the Penguins have a little momentum after keeping the Red Wings from lifting the Cup in their building for the second straight year. But the visiting team has had trouble getting the win, which favors the Red Wings. Either way, what a series!
What looked to be another domination effort by the Red Wings, the Penguins have done all they could to stay alive for a game seven. This entire post season we have seen some of the best hockey in the new NHL (since the new CBA).
In the AHL the Hershey Bears will try again to win the Calder Cup still up in their series 3 games to two against the Manitoba Moose. The Bears would have liked to have lifted the Calder Cup in their own building, but will have to win now on the road as the final two games in the series are in Winnipeg. This has been a goaltenders series as both the Moose goaltender Cory Schneider and Bears' Micheal Neuvirth have been outstanding for their teams.
The AHL series has also broke attendance records for the finals in both Hershey and Winnipeg. Through five games, just over 62,000 fans have watched the Bears and Moose duke it out. At tonight's game, the number will break the record set in 2003 in the series between Hamilton and Houston.
The Stanley Cup will be awarded, the Calder Cup might be. It is almost sad to see it all come to an end.
In the DC area, game seven in the Stanley Cup Finals will be on NBC channel 4. The Calder Cup Finals will not be televised here, but you can watch on line by going to B2TV.com and pay the "small" fee. Those in central PA will be able to watch the game, check your local listings.
The Detroit Red Wings and the Pittsburgh Penguins will battle it out at Joe Louis Arena in a series deciding game seven. At this point this game is a coin flip, the Penguins have a little momentum after keeping the Red Wings from lifting the Cup in their building for the second straight year. But the visiting team has had trouble getting the win, which favors the Red Wings. Either way, what a series!
What looked to be another domination effort by the Red Wings, the Penguins have done all they could to stay alive for a game seven. This entire post season we have seen some of the best hockey in the new NHL (since the new CBA).
In the AHL the Hershey Bears will try again to win the Calder Cup still up in their series 3 games to two against the Manitoba Moose. The Bears would have liked to have lifted the Calder Cup in their own building, but will have to win now on the road as the final two games in the series are in Winnipeg. This has been a goaltenders series as both the Moose goaltender Cory Schneider and Bears' Micheal Neuvirth have been outstanding for their teams.
The AHL series has also broke attendance records for the finals in both Hershey and Winnipeg. Through five games, just over 62,000 fans have watched the Bears and Moose duke it out. At tonight's game, the number will break the record set in 2003 in the series between Hamilton and Houston.
The Stanley Cup will be awarded, the Calder Cup might be. It is almost sad to see it all come to an end.
In the DC area, game seven in the Stanley Cup Finals will be on NBC channel 4. The Calder Cup Finals will not be televised here, but you can watch on line by going to B2TV.com and pay the "small" fee. Those in central PA will be able to watch the game, check your local listings.
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
Moose Stay Alive
The Hershey Bears were just a win away from winning the Calder Cup at home, but the Manitoba Moose had other plans. The Moose stay alive with a 3-2 win over the Bears and force a game 6 back in Manitoba. The Calder Cup will have to wait just a bit longer before it is awarded.
The Moose scored a pair of late second period goals. The Bears answered in the third with a Graham Mink goal to make it 2-1, but the Moose stood tall defensively and scored an empty netter to ice the game. The Bears did add a late tally off of a John Carlson point shot but the damage had been done.
Micheal Neuvirth did another fantastic job in net for the Bears stopping 23 shots and his counterpart, Cory Scheinder was no slouch either. Both goaltenders have been great in this series, but it was Scheinder's night to shine with 31 saves.
The series now shifts back to Manitoba where the Bears will try to once again win the Calder Cup. The Bears still hold the series lead 3 games to two and the Moose are pressured to stay perfect through two games.
The Moose scored a pair of late second period goals. The Bears answered in the third with a Graham Mink goal to make it 2-1, but the Moose stood tall defensively and scored an empty netter to ice the game. The Bears did add a late tally off of a John Carlson point shot but the damage had been done.
Micheal Neuvirth did another fantastic job in net for the Bears stopping 23 shots and his counterpart, Cory Scheinder was no slouch either. Both goaltenders have been great in this series, but it was Scheinder's night to shine with 31 saves.
The series now shifts back to Manitoba where the Bears will try to once again win the Calder Cup. The Bears still hold the series lead 3 games to two and the Moose are pressured to stay perfect through two games.
Cup Crazy
Tonight could be a night when both NHL's Stanley Cup and AHL's Calder Cup could be awarded. The Detroit Red Wings can do away with the Pittsburgh Penguins at Mellon Arena in Pittsburgh and the Hershey Bears can win their 5th championship over the Manitoba Moose at the Giant Center in Hershey. That leaves the possibility of both Cups awarded on the same night in the same state; you wonder if the universe might be collapsing in on itself with such an event.
The Bears series could be done in 5 games after they had split the games in Manitoba and then won two straight at home, including a game three shutout by Micheal Neuvirth. The Red Wings are a bit behind the curve as they are only ahead in their series 3-2. A visiting team has yet to win in the other's building in the Wings/Pens series, a stat that will have to change if the Red Wings wish to win.
The Stanley Cup Finals can be seen on NBC channel 4 locally with a puck drop at 8:18 pm. Good luck trying to find the Hershey Bears game, it will not be shown locally here in the DC area like it had two years ago when they won the Calder Cup. You can however spend a few bucks and watch it on B2TV.com online. Puck drop is at 7:15 pm.
If both teams lose their chance to win a Cup, the Bears will have to travel back to Manitoba will have to try to win it on the road. While the Red Wings will have a chance to beat the Penguins at home in an all important game seven.
The Bears series could be done in 5 games after they had split the games in Manitoba and then won two straight at home, including a game three shutout by Micheal Neuvirth. The Red Wings are a bit behind the curve as they are only ahead in their series 3-2. A visiting team has yet to win in the other's building in the Wings/Pens series, a stat that will have to change if the Red Wings wish to win.
The Stanley Cup Finals can be seen on NBC channel 4 locally with a puck drop at 8:18 pm. Good luck trying to find the Hershey Bears game, it will not be shown locally here in the DC area like it had two years ago when they won the Calder Cup. You can however spend a few bucks and watch it on B2TV.com online. Puck drop is at 7:15 pm.
If both teams lose their chance to win a Cup, the Bears will have to travel back to Manitoba will have to try to win it on the road. While the Red Wings will have a chance to beat the Penguins at home in an all important game seven.
Monday, June 08, 2009
Bears Just A Step Away
The Hershey Bears is just one game away from a Calder Cup championship over the Manitoba Moose and have a chance to win it at home on Tuesday night as they win game four 2-1. Keith Aucoin broke a 1-1 tie in the third with a power play goal. From there, Micheal Neuvirth took over the game with some magnificent saves to get the win and help the Bears to a three games to one lead in the series.
Neuvirth gave a little jump when the final horn sounded, and why shouldn't he. The rookie goaltender has been a big part of the Bears' rise to the finals. The last time the Bears were in this position, it was on the back of a grizzled veteran Fredric Cassivi. Neuvirth has been a key compontent in this possible championship run.
But the hardest part of closing out a series is closing out a series. The Hershey Bears are on the brink of not only winning the AHL's championship, but they have a chance to raise the Calder Cup at home. The Moose just want to win one more game to take it back to Manitoba and hopefully break the Bears' momentum.
Game five is on Tuesday night and there could be a chance that both the Stanley Cup and Calder Cup could be awarded on the same night. Game 4 highlights can be found here.
Neuvirth gave a little jump when the final horn sounded, and why shouldn't he. The rookie goaltender has been a big part of the Bears' rise to the finals. The last time the Bears were in this position, it was on the back of a grizzled veteran Fredric Cassivi. Neuvirth has been a key compontent in this possible championship run.
But the hardest part of closing out a series is closing out a series. The Hershey Bears are on the brink of not only winning the AHL's championship, but they have a chance to raise the Calder Cup at home. The Moose just want to win one more game to take it back to Manitoba and hopefully break the Bears' momentum.
Game five is on Tuesday night and there could be a chance that both the Stanley Cup and Calder Cup could be awarded on the same night. Game 4 highlights can be found here.
Saturday, June 06, 2009
Bears Jump To A 2-1 Series Lead With Win
The Hershey Bears took full advantage of home ice advantage breaking the series stalemate to take a 2-1 series lead over the Manitoba Moose with a 3-0 win. Alex Giroux and Graham Mink scored power play tallies while Micheal Neuvirth stopped all 28 shots his way to give the Bears the lead in the best of seven series for the AHL's Calder Cup.
The Bears' power play was a potent 2 for 3 and was the deciding factor of game 3 with Steffan Kronwall assisting on both goals. Quintin Laing scored the empty net/short handed tally to ice the game and give the Bears the series lead.
But Neuvirth was the game's first star posting the shutout in an all important game for the Bears. His league leading 4th shutout of the playoffs came in a series with the Moose that had taken a few days off after game two in Manitoba on Tuesday night.
The Bears also were able to kill off all 5 of Manitoba's power plays. Five on five both goaltenders were spectacular with Neuvirth's counter part, Cory Schneider, stopping a slew of Bear's shots.
Just like the Capitals, the Bears had to make it interesting with Bryan Helmer taking a couple of late penalties to give the Moose a chance late. But the visiting team just couldn't cash in on their opportunities and the Bears look pretty sharp in their home whites.
Video highlights can be found here. Game 4 is a quick turn around with a 5 pm start tomorrow (Sunday) evening.
The Bears' power play was a potent 2 for 3 and was the deciding factor of game 3 with Steffan Kronwall assisting on both goals. Quintin Laing scored the empty net/short handed tally to ice the game and give the Bears the series lead.
But Neuvirth was the game's first star posting the shutout in an all important game for the Bears. His league leading 4th shutout of the playoffs came in a series with the Moose that had taken a few days off after game two in Manitoba on Tuesday night.
The Bears also were able to kill off all 5 of Manitoba's power plays. Five on five both goaltenders were spectacular with Neuvirth's counter part, Cory Schneider, stopping a slew of Bear's shots.
Just like the Capitals, the Bears had to make it interesting with Bryan Helmer taking a couple of late penalties to give the Moose a chance late. But the visiting team just couldn't cash in on their opportunities and the Bears look pretty sharp in their home whites.
Video highlights can be found here. Game 4 is a quick turn around with a 5 pm start tomorrow (Sunday) evening.
Wednesday, June 03, 2009
Moose Get Even
The Manitoba Moose did not want to go down two games to none against the Hershey Bears in AHL's Calder Cup Final and then face the next three games of the series on the road. The Bears will have to settle for a split on the road and come home with the series tied at one.
Alex Giroux got the Bears off to a good start, but the Moose fought their way back in the game with a power play goal. Jason Jaffray scored to even things up then scored the late third period game winner with under a minute left. The Bears lost their cool in the final seconds and Jaffray was able to answer Giroux's game one hattrick with one of his own on an empty netter.
Highlights of game two can be found here (if they have them up yet, which they haven't at the time this article was posted). The Calder Cup does not resume in Hershey until Saturday June 6. The next three games will be in Hershey then the best of seven will transfer back to Manitoba on June 12.
Meanwhile, another level down, the South Carolina Stingrays are on the verge of a Kelly Cup win in the ECHL. They were up three games to one in the series against the Alaska Aces (a series that stretches 5 time zones!) but lost Saturday night as the Aces stay alive still down three games to two. The Rays have a chance to ice it Thursday night at Sullivan Arena in Anchorage Alaska.
Alex Giroux got the Bears off to a good start, but the Moose fought their way back in the game with a power play goal. Jason Jaffray scored to even things up then scored the late third period game winner with under a minute left. The Bears lost their cool in the final seconds and Jaffray was able to answer Giroux's game one hattrick with one of his own on an empty netter.
Highlights of game two can be found here (if they have them up yet, which they haven't at the time this article was posted). The Calder Cup does not resume in Hershey until Saturday June 6. The next three games will be in Hershey then the best of seven will transfer back to Manitoba on June 12.
Meanwhile, another level down, the South Carolina Stingrays are on the verge of a Kelly Cup win in the ECHL. They were up three games to one in the series against the Alaska Aces (a series that stretches 5 time zones!) but lost Saturday night as the Aces stay alive still down three games to two. The Rays have a chance to ice it Thursday night at Sullivan Arena in Anchorage Alaska.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Bears Draw First Blood In OT
The Hershey Bears came back from a 3-1 Manitoba Moose lead to eventually take the lead in the third period 4-3 with under five minutes left in the game. But the Moose tie the game and the Bears are forced to kill a 5 on 3 in the waning moments of the game to send it to overtime.
Alexandre Giroux is the game one hero as he scores not only a hattrick on the game, but the overtime game winner off of a Tyler Sloan shot from the point. The rebound bounce right to a waiting Giroux and the Bears defeat the Moose 5-4.
In a thrilling game one, the Moose were able to get some great break away chances as the Bears' defense scrambled. If they didn't score, Manitoba was able to draw penalties.
Highlights of the game can be found here.
Oh, and the Red Wings take a game one victory against the Pittsburgh Penguins in a little thing called the Stanley Cup playoffs. Not as important, but I thought I should mention it.
Alexandre Giroux is the game one hero as he scores not only a hattrick on the game, but the overtime game winner off of a Tyler Sloan shot from the point. The rebound bounce right to a waiting Giroux and the Bears defeat the Moose 5-4.
In a thrilling game one, the Moose were able to get some great break away chances as the Bears' defense scrambled. If they didn't score, Manitoba was able to draw penalties.
Highlights of the game can be found here.
Oh, and the Red Wings take a game one victory against the Pittsburgh Penguins in a little thing called the Stanley Cup playoffs. Not as important, but I thought I should mention it.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Moose and Bears Are Set For Finals
Waiting for the Capitals franchise to turn this:
Into this:
Into this:
For the first time in nearly ten years in the AHL, the number one teams from their respective conferences end up in the finals. The Bears and Moose have both finished the regular season atop of their Conferences and now will battle it out for the Calder Cup. The Moose lead the league in defense with only 188 goals against, while Hershey lead the league in scoring with 296. The contrast for these two teams should make for an interesting series.While it is only the first ever Finals appearance by Manitoba, Hershey will compete for the 21st time in AHL's history and will be looking for their tenth championship. Hershey won the Calder Cup in '06 and was runner up in '07. Their appearance in the finals for a third time in four seasons is the first in the AHL since Rochester did it in the early nineties.
The series that starts tonight, the same night the Stanley Cup finals start. Micheal Neuvirth will be the starting goaltender for the Bears. He has been brilliant thus far in the post season with a 2.03 goals against average and a .929 save percentage. His counterpart is Cory Schneider for the Moose, he has posted similar numbers in the post season with the same 2.03 GAA and a .924 save percentage.
The Bears have only four returning players that were on the team that won the Calder Cup in 2006, Graham Mink, Chris Bourque, Tyler Sloan and Dean Arsene. Bryan Helmer won the Calder Cup as a second year pro with the Albany River Rats in 1995. He also skated for the Manitoba Moose from 2001 to 2003 and ranks seventh all time in career AHL playoff games played with 111.
The Hershey Bears have ranked first in the league in attendance for the regular season, while the Manitoba Moose rank first in attendance for the post season. For the people in Winnipeg, this series is a big deal.
"This is the Super Bowl to them," Voice of the Bears John Walton said on his blog. "We had more media requests this morning from Manitoba than Hershey, and we hold our own pretty well here when it comes to media coverage. I was told yesterday that one of the local papers up there is planning a 20-PAGE pullout section Saturday to mark the opening of the Finals. What NHL team heading into the Stanley Cup Final outside of Toronto or Montreal would ever get something like that?"
John Walton also has pictures up on his blog from Manitoba on the Bears excursion thus far.
Sunday, May 03, 2009
Unfair?
What is the difference between this hit...
... and this hit?
Five games apparently. Donald Brashear's hit on Blair Betts cost him a five game suspension (an extra game suspension for his pregame antics). Mike Brown's hit on Jiri Hudler, however, cost him nothing. Brown was just ejected from the game.
The hits are almost identical, both late and to the head. If I were Caps' GM George McPhee, I think I would be looking for an explanation and would appeal Brash's suspension.
Caps Notes:
... and this hit?
Five games apparently. Donald Brashear's hit on Blair Betts cost him a five game suspension (an extra game suspension for his pregame antics). Mike Brown's hit on Jiri Hudler, however, cost him nothing. Brown was just ejected from the game.
The hits are almost identical, both late and to the head. If I were Caps' GM George McPhee, I think I would be looking for an explanation and would appeal Brash's suspension.
Caps Notes:
- Thanks to Japer's Rink, there is a note of caution. The Caps have won seven of eight game ones against the Penguins all time, but only have won one of six series. We don't want to make the same mistake as some New Yorkers did just because of a win.
- Simeon Varlamov has been the talk of the league. His save has been called the save of the playoffs. He even took the number one top play on ESPN's Sports Center top ten plays. I doubt the Penguins did much to shake his confidence and the team is playing well in front of him.
- The best sign of game one by the Capitals fans was an image of a dollar bill with Bruce Boudreau in place of George Washington. Pretty funny, but I would think he would be worth more than just a dollar.
- The Capitals' AHL affiliate Hershey Bears took a 1-0 series lead against the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins last night. They won 5-3. Game 2 is tonight at 5 pm in Hershey. It is a full-on franchise battle!
Monday, January 05, 2009
Putting Ovechkin's Snub In Perspective
Montreal will host a peculiar All-Star game that will feature a starting line up of nothing but Canadiens and Penguins. But if you are going to leave the voting up for fans to decide, then you are going to get results like this from time to time.
Pittsburgh's Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Canadiens Alexei Kovalev, Andrei Markov, Mike Komisarek and Carey Price makes the starting roster for the Eastern Conference. Since Malkin leads the league in points and assist, his selection makes sense. Crosby is going to get selected no matter what, he is the face of the league and apart of the NHL PR machine.
I can buy into Mike Komisarek and Andrei Markov, they are very good defensemen. Markov is seventh in the league in points and Komisarek is just a smart tough blue liner. Price is a stretch considering Manny Fernandez or Tim Thomas would be good selections considering the Bruins perch atop the Eastern Conference. Kovalev? No clue. He doesn't rank in the top 30 in goals, assists or points.
Alex Ovechkin is mysteriously left off the list with only 470,000 votes. It could be because of Ovi's slow start to the season or because Canadien fans who would vote in a rock dressed in a Montreal sweater. But another good reason for a low vote count is no one wants to face Ovechkin. The Capitals are quickly becoming the team that fans across the league hate to see playing their team. That sort of animosity could get a few people to choose Kovalev over Ovechkin.
It's not like Ovi is going to miss the All-Star game. I wouldn't be surprised if after the opening face-off someone comes off the ice and Ovechkin is the next player on. Two other Capitals make strong arguements to make the All-Star team in Mike Green and Nick Backstrom.
I guess I am not the only one who thinks that the fans voted weirdly. Craig Custance of Sporting News puts the 411 on who should really be there, for both Eastern and Western Conferences.
Caps Notes:
Pittsburgh's Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Canadiens Alexei Kovalev, Andrei Markov, Mike Komisarek and Carey Price makes the starting roster for the Eastern Conference. Since Malkin leads the league in points and assist, his selection makes sense. Crosby is going to get selected no matter what, he is the face of the league and apart of the NHL PR machine.
I can buy into Mike Komisarek and Andrei Markov, they are very good defensemen. Markov is seventh in the league in points and Komisarek is just a smart tough blue liner. Price is a stretch considering Manny Fernandez or Tim Thomas would be good selections considering the Bruins perch atop the Eastern Conference. Kovalev? No clue. He doesn't rank in the top 30 in goals, assists or points.
Alex Ovechkin is mysteriously left off the list with only 470,000 votes. It could be because of Ovi's slow start to the season or because Canadien fans who would vote in a rock dressed in a Montreal sweater. But another good reason for a low vote count is no one wants to face Ovechkin. The Capitals are quickly becoming the team that fans across the league hate to see playing their team. That sort of animosity could get a few people to choose Kovalev over Ovechkin.
It's not like Ovi is going to miss the All-Star game. I wouldn't be surprised if after the opening face-off someone comes off the ice and Ovechkin is the next player on. Two other Capitals make strong arguements to make the All-Star team in Mike Green and Nick Backstrom.
I guess I am not the only one who thinks that the fans voted weirdly. Craig Custance of Sporting News puts the 411 on who should really be there, for both Eastern and Western Conferences.
Caps Notes:
- Alexandre Giroux was sometime frustrated after getting open when he was a Capital. He would have a beautiful scoring chance that only turned into a great save. But in the AHL those shots are going in a plenty. Since being demoted back to the Hershey Bears Giroux hasn't found it hard to find the back of the net, including four goals last night against the Worcester Sharks. He has nine points in the past two games.
- Speaking of the Hershey Bears, bench boss Bob Woods was chosen for the AHL All-Star game. He will coach the Eastern Conference All-Stars.
- The game Tuesday against the Flyers could not only push the Caps up further away the remaining teams in the Southeast Division (currently 10 points better than Carolina), but it could also push them 7 points away from 3rd in the Eastern Conference, who just happens to be the Flyers.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Caps Sign And Recall Helmer. Wait, Who?
The Washington Capitals have signed Bryan Helmer from Hershey and have called him up to the big squad. In the face of mounting injuries on the blue line, the Caps have no choice but to bring up another defenseman. Of course Helmer had to sign a contract before he could be called up, I am sure for the league minimum.
You are probably wondering, "Who the heck is Bryan Helmer?" Besides being the Bears captain, Helmer has had a yo-yo of a career between the NHL, AHL, and the IHL. He is no stranger to the NHL ranks, he has logged 134 games and amassed 15 assists and 23 points. But he never to seem to have any staying power in the NHL.
Helmer could be considered a career AHLer and his numbers are solid, in 848 games in the developmental league he accumulated 342 points and is a +126. The Caps signed Helmer as a unrestricted free agent in July. Although he has never been drafted, he has been through some good organizations like the New Jersey Devils, St. Louis Blues, Vancouver Canucks, Detroit Red Wings and the Phoenix Coyotes mostly playing for their affiliate AHL squads.
At 36 (my personal hero now), he has made the AHL All-Star first and second team. His career year happened in his last year as an Albany Rat in '97 -'98 where he finished with 63 points in 80 games. His best year of late has been with Grand Rapids in '05 - '06 where he scored 56 points and was a +25 (he was a career best +29 in Albany in '95 -'96) through 80 games. He is also a father of two (Cade 7 and Rylan 3), who will be in attendance for his first game back along with his wife Pam.
Helmer will play tonight against the Canadians and will wear #43.
Caps Notes:
Karl Alzner, a big Scott Niedermayer fan, turned in his #47 for #27. I think it suits him better.
Mike Green and John Erskine are aiming for a return on Tuesday against Florida (a game that is blacked out). The way injuries seem to be worse than first reported, I am not holding my breath.
I did not get up and 4 am. I did not go to the Mall at all today (knock on wood). I am enjoying my Black Friday immensely.
You are probably wondering, "Who the heck is Bryan Helmer?" Besides being the Bears captain, Helmer has had a yo-yo of a career between the NHL, AHL, and the IHL. He is no stranger to the NHL ranks, he has logged 134 games and amassed 15 assists and 23 points. But he never to seem to have any staying power in the NHL.
Helmer could be considered a career AHLer and his numbers are solid, in 848 games in the developmental league he accumulated 342 points and is a +126. The Caps signed Helmer as a unrestricted free agent in July. Although he has never been drafted, he has been through some good organizations like the New Jersey Devils, St. Louis Blues, Vancouver Canucks, Detroit Red Wings and the Phoenix Coyotes mostly playing for their affiliate AHL squads.
At 36 (my personal hero now), he has made the AHL All-Star first and second team. His career year happened in his last year as an Albany Rat in '97 -'98 where he finished with 63 points in 80 games. His best year of late has been with Grand Rapids in '05 - '06 where he scored 56 points and was a +25 (he was a career best +29 in Albany in '95 -'96) through 80 games. He is also a father of two (Cade 7 and Rylan 3), who will be in attendance for his first game back along with his wife Pam.
Helmer will play tonight against the Canadians and will wear #43.
Caps Notes:
Karl Alzner, a big Scott Niedermayer fan, turned in his #47 for #27. I think it suits him better.
Mike Green and John Erskine are aiming for a return on Tuesday against Florida (a game that is blacked out). The way injuries seem to be worse than first reported, I am not holding my breath.
I did not get up and 4 am. I did not go to the Mall at all today (knock on wood). I am enjoying my Black Friday immensely.
Friday, September 26, 2008
Add A Few More
Andrew Gordon, Andrew Joudrey and Daren Machesney have all been sent down to Hershey. For those of you keeping score, that leaves 3 goaltenders, 18 forwards, and 13 defensemen.
It looks like the forward lines will be more in focus for the remaining preseason games, probably a little tweaking as they go. There are still a lot of blueliners that are hanging around. The goaltending ranks seem the only thing that seems pretty much set at this point with Jose Theodore as the number one, Brent Johnson the back up and Simeon Varlamov third in line.
As far as more cuts go, I imagine we would see a person sent down from here or there but this should do it for massive cuts.
It looks like the forward lines will be more in focus for the remaining preseason games, probably a little tweaking as they go. There are still a lot of blueliners that are hanging around. The goaltending ranks seem the only thing that seems pretty much set at this point with Jose Theodore as the number one, Brent Johnson the back up and Simeon Varlamov third in line.
As far as more cuts go, I imagine we would see a person sent down from here or there but this should do it for massive cuts.
It's Not You, It's Me (Updated)
The Capitals make more cuts as Hershey starts their training camp today. The latest include: Greg Amadio, Dean Arsene, Jay Beagle, Francois Bouchard, Sean Collins, Viktor Dovgan, Michael Dubuc, Alexandre Giroux, Bryan Helmer, Maxime Lacroix, Tommy Maxwell, Patrick McNeill, Graham Mink, Travis Morin, Michal Neuvirth, Oskar Osala, Steve Pinizzotto, Sasha Pokulok, Darren Reid and Kyle Wilson.
Some surprises and thoughts:
Osala gets sent down after what I thought had a good development camp/rookie camp. It seems though he is getting lost amongst the veterans. I really thought he would last much longer.
Mathieu Perrault stays but Bouchard is sent down.
The forward's list gets tighter going down to 20 players, but there are still 14 defensemen at camp. The competition must be getting pretty stiff for a job on D.
The goaltender list goes down to fourth and surprisingly, it's Neuvirth that was the low goaltender on the todem pole. Daren Machesney, Simeon Varlamov, Brent Johnson and Jose Theodore remain.
UPDATE: Per Caps PR Dept., Josh Godfrey was also sent down to Hershey. Now the defensemen are down to 13 players. 6 more to cut before October seventh.
Some surprises and thoughts:
Osala gets sent down after what I thought had a good development camp/rookie camp. It seems though he is getting lost amongst the veterans. I really thought he would last much longer.
Mathieu Perrault stays but Bouchard is sent down.
The forward's list gets tighter going down to 20 players, but there are still 14 defensemen at camp. The competition must be getting pretty stiff for a job on D.
The goaltender list goes down to fourth and surprisingly, it's Neuvirth that was the low goaltender on the todem pole. Daren Machesney, Simeon Varlamov, Brent Johnson and Jose Theodore remain.
UPDATE: Per Caps PR Dept., Josh Godfrey was also sent down to Hershey. Now the defensemen are down to 13 players. 6 more to cut before October seventh.
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