The first round of the NHL playoffs had just about everything. And age old rivalry, some new foes in post season play and more game sevens than you can shake a hockey stick at. This is what the playoffs should be, right? Some games have been whoppers of games, while others have been snoozers.
So let's get to it, the first round winners and losers:
The Winners
Showing posts with label Verizon Center. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Verizon Center. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Saturday, May 02, 2009
Caps vs. Pens, Bring It On
Just got to Verizon Center. A little early thanks to Metro warning fans of track maintenance. There are a good sized contingent of Penguins fans both on the Metro and outside the building. Almost makes you wonder if anyone turned out the light before they left (or does no one live in Pittsburgh anymore).
Walking the hallway next to the press lounge, some Penguins' players are warming up including Sidney Crosby. A woman that works for the phone booth was worried she was going to run into one of the with her cart and hurt someone. We reassured her that she would get flowers and cards for the entire summer if that happened.
I am going to be making more remarks and observations over on twitter.com/pckhdsthghts and you can follow along there.
Let's Go Caps!
Walking the hallway next to the press lounge, some Penguins' players are warming up including Sidney Crosby. A woman that works for the phone booth was worried she was going to run into one of the with her cart and hurt someone. We reassured her that she would get flowers and cards for the entire summer if that happened.
I am going to be making more remarks and observations over on twitter.com/pckhdsthghts and you can follow along there.
Let's Go Caps!
Friday, February 13, 2009
Thoughts On Ice Condition
I know I might be Johnny-come-lately on the topic of the ice conditions at the Verizon Center, but apparently the blogosphere is obsessed. On the heels of Tom Poti's comments, many area bloggers have made the condition of the ice at the phone booth their number one priority of griping (when your team is winning, I guess you pick on the little things).
Being a hockey player myself and playing on a plethora of ice surfaces I can tell you that it doesn't matter how good or bad the ice is, good players are still good players.
There are obviously factors involved to creating great ice and the effort of getting water to freeze at all is quite the challenge in the District of Columbia. A lot of people forget that we do live in a swamp where humidity and heat are enemies to solid forms of H2O. Not to mention a building that sees a lot of activity.
Normally, good ice for hockey is a very cold building and thinner ice. Ice that is thin and hard is perfect for speed, allowing less of the skate blade to sink in. The colder, the better because the ice is stronger, allowing a better cut for the skate blade and supporting the force needed to get up and go.
In contrast, good ice for figure skating is a warmer building and slightly thicker ice as the volume of the ice allows it to be softer and better for jumps and toe picks (enter Cutting Edge jokes here). Thicker ice is also slower.
It is a challenge to skate on poor ice. Anyone who has ever skated in a rink during a public skate knows if they catch a skate in a rut it is hard to get your skate out of it. There are basically three things you can do. 1) Ride the rut out, it eventually ends, 2) lift your foot and 3) build up your leg strength in order to skate through it. If you try to change course or if your body momentum is heading in a different direction, that is when bad things happen (i.e. groin pulls, ankle sprains, so on).
Bad ice can also create bouncing pucks as it is hard for a puck to stay flat with deep grooves and ruts. A bouncing puck always favors quicker hands. A coach told me once that the best way to play bouncing pucks is to play with bigger sticks and be a short stop. He didn't want us to actually get bigger sticks but to increase the surface area of your blade by chopping or waving your stick to stop the puck. Being a short stop simply means use your glove, arm, leg, skate, any part of your body to stop the puck, like a short stop in baseball.
Part of the problem for hockey players is they are not thinking about the ice surface. They are skating with their heads up, watching the play and reacting to the other skaters and the puck. It different than a public skate around the rink. Catching a skate in a rut when you are not expecting it can strain the muscles in your leg when you try to correct the course, especially if all you weight is on that leg (gearing up for a shot or making a turn).
Creating the ideal ice is a battle of the ambient conditions. Normally buildings like the Verizon Center are never great places to put a rink in the first place. Keeping the building's temperature is pretty hard to do with 18,000 people in it is a nightmare not to mention controlling the humidity levels. I have a hard enough problem keeping my apartment a comfortable atmosphere for my wife, I can't imagine what it is like for a building like the phone booth.
I am not here to make excuses for the condition of the ice. If we lived in a ice rink utopia, the ice would be fast and smooth, but we don't. The conditions are just going to get more complicated as we shed our winter coats for light jackets and take long walks on the national mall with out scarves. If the Capitals do make it deep in to the post season, the Verizon Center will get help from the league in order to make the ice a non factor in the playoffs.
I don't envy the job maintenance has to maintain the ice here in DC. It is hell somewhat frozen over.
Being a hockey player myself and playing on a plethora of ice surfaces I can tell you that it doesn't matter how good or bad the ice is, good players are still good players.
There are obviously factors involved to creating great ice and the effort of getting water to freeze at all is quite the challenge in the District of Columbia. A lot of people forget that we do live in a swamp where humidity and heat are enemies to solid forms of H2O. Not to mention a building that sees a lot of activity.
Normally, good ice for hockey is a very cold building and thinner ice. Ice that is thin and hard is perfect for speed, allowing less of the skate blade to sink in. The colder, the better because the ice is stronger, allowing a better cut for the skate blade and supporting the force needed to get up and go.
In contrast, good ice for figure skating is a warmer building and slightly thicker ice as the volume of the ice allows it to be softer and better for jumps and toe picks (enter Cutting Edge jokes here). Thicker ice is also slower.
It is a challenge to skate on poor ice. Anyone who has ever skated in a rink during a public skate knows if they catch a skate in a rut it is hard to get your skate out of it. There are basically three things you can do. 1) Ride the rut out, it eventually ends, 2) lift your foot and 3) build up your leg strength in order to skate through it. If you try to change course or if your body momentum is heading in a different direction, that is when bad things happen (i.e. groin pulls, ankle sprains, so on).
Bad ice can also create bouncing pucks as it is hard for a puck to stay flat with deep grooves and ruts. A bouncing puck always favors quicker hands. A coach told me once that the best way to play bouncing pucks is to play with bigger sticks and be a short stop. He didn't want us to actually get bigger sticks but to increase the surface area of your blade by chopping or waving your stick to stop the puck. Being a short stop simply means use your glove, arm, leg, skate, any part of your body to stop the puck, like a short stop in baseball.
Part of the problem for hockey players is they are not thinking about the ice surface. They are skating with their heads up, watching the play and reacting to the other skaters and the puck. It different than a public skate around the rink. Catching a skate in a rut when you are not expecting it can strain the muscles in your leg when you try to correct the course, especially if all you weight is on that leg (gearing up for a shot or making a turn).
Creating the ideal ice is a battle of the ambient conditions. Normally buildings like the Verizon Center are never great places to put a rink in the first place. Keeping the building's temperature is pretty hard to do with 18,000 people in it is a nightmare not to mention controlling the humidity levels. I have a hard enough problem keeping my apartment a comfortable atmosphere for my wife, I can't imagine what it is like for a building like the phone booth.
I am not here to make excuses for the condition of the ice. If we lived in a ice rink utopia, the ice would be fast and smooth, but we don't. The conditions are just going to get more complicated as we shed our winter coats for light jackets and take long walks on the national mall with out scarves. If the Capitals do make it deep in to the post season, the Verizon Center will get help from the league in order to make the ice a non factor in the playoffs.
I don't envy the job maintenance has to maintain the ice here in DC. It is hell somewhat frozen over.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Random Thoughts
Are the Capitals really at .500? Aren't winning percentages compiled by the number of wins divided by total games played? If so the Caps have that "5" that just dangles on the end of their team stat. Those are overtime losses, and don't they exist just as regular losses? If they did the Capitals would be 21-26, still below .500 (.447 to be exact). But the league doesn't care about that stat too much, that "5" that just attaches itself there, like a freckle or a cancer. Gross.
Not that I am underachieving what the Capitals were able to do in their five game home stretch, but am I the only one that sees this? The league is treating shoot outs and overtime losses like they almost don't exist. Players stats are not recorded during the shoot out. Then when looking at the stats, you want to ask what's that "5" doing there?
"That '5', it's nothing, the Caps are 21 and 21, those 5 games don't count."
Ah. I guess I watched those five games for nothing.
Just a thought.
Speaking of the Pittsburgh Penguins, the media has gone hog wild about Sid "the Kid" being out of the line up. Top three hockey headline stories on CBS Sportsline, ESPN and Yahoo were all fawning over the Penguins able to win a game with out Crosby (they beat Montreal 2-0). If I were one of the players on the Penguins, I might just be insulted. What do you think just because Crosby's out that the team was going to tank? Apparently they did. Let's hope they do against the Caps Monday night.
The Verizon Center last night actually looked pretty full. Seems the fans are starting to believe in the team again. For those have been there all the time, you may have noticed it's taking longer between periods to get to our precious beers. On the other hand, it's nice to see a crowd out to cheer on the Caps, not just the other team.
The crowd gave the team a nice standing ovation at the end of the first period and I have to say not only are the Caps' fans knowledgeable, but classy too. It's times like these I know I am cheering for the right team. So it's not such a bad thing that I have to wait an extra 6 minutes for a beer. Wait, I have been standing in line for 6 minutes? Good Lord, Uncle Ted, get some more beer windows!
That's all I got for now.
Not that I am underachieving what the Capitals were able to do in their five game home stretch, but am I the only one that sees this? The league is treating shoot outs and overtime losses like they almost don't exist. Players stats are not recorded during the shoot out. Then when looking at the stats, you want to ask what's that "5" doing there?
"That '5', it's nothing, the Caps are 21 and 21, those 5 games don't count."
Ah. I guess I watched those five games for nothing.
Just a thought.
Speaking of the Pittsburgh Penguins, the media has gone hog wild about Sid "the Kid" being out of the line up. Top three hockey headline stories on CBS Sportsline, ESPN and Yahoo were all fawning over the Penguins able to win a game with out Crosby (they beat Montreal 2-0). If I were one of the players on the Penguins, I might just be insulted. What do you think just because Crosby's out that the team was going to tank? Apparently they did. Let's hope they do against the Caps Monday night.
The Verizon Center last night actually looked pretty full. Seems the fans are starting to believe in the team again. For those have been there all the time, you may have noticed it's taking longer between periods to get to our precious beers. On the other hand, it's nice to see a crowd out to cheer on the Caps, not just the other team.
The crowd gave the team a nice standing ovation at the end of the first period and I have to say not only are the Caps' fans knowledgeable, but classy too. It's times like these I know I am cheering for the right team. So it's not such a bad thing that I have to wait an extra 6 minutes for a beer. Wait, I have been standing in line for 6 minutes? Good Lord, Uncle Ted, get some more beer windows!
That's all I got for now.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Nylander Out For Season, Caps Win Anyway
Capitals 4, Senators 2
Scoresheet - Wash Post
I didn't see a single broom at the game, but I did witness a sweep as the Captials finished off the Ottawa Senators (the best team in the east) with a perfect season record of 4-0-0. All this with the news that Micheal Nylander is having rotator cuff surgery and most likely will be out for the rest of the season. If there was ever a Capitals' curse, Micheal Nylander has been a victim once again because of it.
The news was a shocker for sure, but the Caps didn't hang their heads. Instead they were on a mission to sweep the Senators and they did that in comeback fashion. The Caps opened the scoring in the second period with a Mike Green power play goal (his 13th goal and leads all NHL defensemen in goals). The Senators responded with two quick goals of their own and took a 2-1 lead. Then Alex Semin picked off a Senator pass and made some quick dekes to evade the defender and Ray Emery to score the equalizer. Add an Alex Ovechkin power play goal (his 34th on the year) mid way through the third and a Semin insurance marker gave the Caps the season sweep.
The first period was a physical affair as some of the biggest hits happened early, but those seemed to subside in the second and third giving both teams a chance to play their system. Brent Johnson started in goal and was run into in the first minute of the game by Chris Neil but there was no penalty called on the play. It almost looked as if it would be an early exit again, but Johnny shook it off and played one of the better games he has preformed in this year. Besides the two goals on him, one a deflection the other a garbage goal, Johnny was very solid in net not letting a single soft goal against him.
Nicklas Backstrom has stepped up in absence of Nylander in the line up, and is starting to find more space for himself. I thought Backstrom, Viktor Kozlov and Ovechkin were the best line of the night. But the checking line found themselves with more scoring chances than the Senator's number one line they defended against. Dave Steckel, Quintin Laing and Matt Bradley played the best game I have seen thus far of them with out scoring a goal. They had their chances for sure, and I was hoping the trio could beat Emery after being close so many times.
The crowd is growing at the phone booth as well. While still not a sell out, the seats seem pretty full. Nice to see a crowd come out and even pull out the "Em-ery" chant a few times in the third period. Winning cures all ills and it's paying off for the Caps. It's a good sign to see some seats in the butts for a Tuesday night game. The fair-weathered fans must be seeing some blue skies for the Caps.
Scoresheet - Wash Post
I didn't see a single broom at the game, but I did witness a sweep as the Captials finished off the Ottawa Senators (the best team in the east) with a perfect season record of 4-0-0. All this with the news that Micheal Nylander is having rotator cuff surgery and most likely will be out for the rest of the season. If there was ever a Capitals' curse, Micheal Nylander has been a victim once again because of it.
The news was a shocker for sure, but the Caps didn't hang their heads. Instead they were on a mission to sweep the Senators and they did that in comeback fashion. The Caps opened the scoring in the second period with a Mike Green power play goal (his 13th goal and leads all NHL defensemen in goals). The Senators responded with two quick goals of their own and took a 2-1 lead. Then Alex Semin picked off a Senator pass and made some quick dekes to evade the defender and Ray Emery to score the equalizer. Add an Alex Ovechkin power play goal (his 34th on the year) mid way through the third and a Semin insurance marker gave the Caps the season sweep.
The first period was a physical affair as some of the biggest hits happened early, but those seemed to subside in the second and third giving both teams a chance to play their system. Brent Johnson started in goal and was run into in the first minute of the game by Chris Neil but there was no penalty called on the play. It almost looked as if it would be an early exit again, but Johnny shook it off and played one of the better games he has preformed in this year. Besides the two goals on him, one a deflection the other a garbage goal, Johnny was very solid in net not letting a single soft goal against him.
Nicklas Backstrom has stepped up in absence of Nylander in the line up, and is starting to find more space for himself. I thought Backstrom, Viktor Kozlov and Ovechkin were the best line of the night. But the checking line found themselves with more scoring chances than the Senator's number one line they defended against. Dave Steckel, Quintin Laing and Matt Bradley played the best game I have seen thus far of them with out scoring a goal. They had their chances for sure, and I was hoping the trio could beat Emery after being close so many times.
The crowd is growing at the phone booth as well. While still not a sell out, the seats seem pretty full. Nice to see a crowd come out and even pull out the "Em-ery" chant a few times in the third period. Winning cures all ills and it's paying off for the Caps. It's a good sign to see some seats in the butts for a Tuesday night game. The fair-weathered fans must be seeing some blue skies for the Caps.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Payback
Nicklas Backstrom was clutch scoring the overtime winner as the Capitals exacted revenge over the Carolina Hurricanes. It was almost a carbon copy from the first preseason game the Caps played against the 'Canes. Except this time the it was Backstom's night scoring the overtime winner 3:36 into the overtime giving the Caps the win 3-2.
Mike Green also had a good game assisting Backstrom's game winner and scoring a tally himself. Based on game stats, it looked like Green and Shaone Morrisonn who both finished the game a +2. David Steckel got some playing time, while Chris Bourque and Jakub Klepis time on the ice was short. Maybe a sign to come on who is being sent back to Hershey. Viktor Kozlov also scored a goal for the Caps.
I missed the game but was able to see the Verizon Center's newext additions. A high definition scoreboard that was pretty cool to watch, video screens that wrapped around the stadium's teirs. The whole look was pretty cool to see. It should add to the experience at the Phone Booth.
Mike Green also had a good game assisting Backstrom's game winner and scoring a tally himself. Based on game stats, it looked like Green and Shaone Morrisonn who both finished the game a +2. David Steckel got some playing time, while Chris Bourque and Jakub Klepis time on the ice was short. Maybe a sign to come on who is being sent back to Hershey. Viktor Kozlov also scored a goal for the Caps.
I missed the game but was able to see the Verizon Center's newext additions. A high definition scoreboard that was pretty cool to watch, video screens that wrapped around the stadium's teirs. The whole look was pretty cool to see. It should add to the experience at the Phone Booth.
A Word Before The Game
Just got a look at the new scoreboard. Wow. The Video is crisp and clear. It's much bigger than the scoreboard that was in before. Also the video screens around the rink is a great touch. The whole Verizon Center a fluid, bright and fun experience with the new additions. I couldn't stick around for the game however, previous engagement.
Welcome home Caps.
P.S. If you were hoping to see the Capitals in their home reds, not tonight. The team just took the ice in their road Whites that we have seen all preseason long.
Welcome home Caps.
P.S. If you were hoping to see the Capitals in their home reds, not tonight. The team just took the ice in their road Whites that we have seen all preseason long.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Sad News
On the eve of the Caps preseason home opener, there is some bad news. Capitals owner Ted Leonsis lost his father. I know how much my pop means to me, so I can empathize with Mr. Leonsis and offer my condolences.
Having said that, the Caps are busy practicing at the Kettler Iceplex again today in preparation for tomorrow night's match up with the Carolina Hurricanes. The Caps' roster is coming more into focus and the next few games are crucial for those wanting to make the line up. Players having a good preseason so far are Dave Steckel and Thomas Fleischmann. Also still in the mix is my dark horse, Chris Bourque, who looks fast and a little beefed up this year to me. His size will always be a factor but if Marin St. Louis, Dan Briere, and Jason Blake can do it, little Bourque can too.
But there are question marks on players that were regulars last season. Mike Green, Brooks Laich and even Brian Sutherby could all be looking at spending some time out of the lineup. That roster wasn't as open and friendly as it was last season when the Caps struggled. It's make it or break it, and the coaches are using the games as an indicator on a players performance. Not only do I think that the Caps play will get better, you will see more chemistry start to evolve and lineups come more into being over the next 4 games of the preseason.
Also at the Phone Booth, the new HD scoreboard is up and operational, just in time for the Caps first game at home. It should add to the experience greatly, although I have not seen it myself.
Having said that, the Caps are busy practicing at the Kettler Iceplex again today in preparation for tomorrow night's match up with the Carolina Hurricanes. The Caps' roster is coming more into focus and the next few games are crucial for those wanting to make the line up. Players having a good preseason so far are Dave Steckel and Thomas Fleischmann. Also still in the mix is my dark horse, Chris Bourque, who looks fast and a little beefed up this year to me. His size will always be a factor but if Marin St. Louis, Dan Briere, and Jason Blake can do it, little Bourque can too.
But there are question marks on players that were regulars last season. Mike Green, Brooks Laich and even Brian Sutherby could all be looking at spending some time out of the lineup. That roster wasn't as open and friendly as it was last season when the Caps struggled. It's make it or break it, and the coaches are using the games as an indicator on a players performance. Not only do I think that the Caps play will get better, you will see more chemistry start to evolve and lineups come more into being over the next 4 games of the preseason.
Also at the Phone Booth, the new HD scoreboard is up and operational, just in time for the Caps first game at home. It should add to the experience greatly, although I have not seen it myself.
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