Game 60: Two ugly points

There are no beauty requirements for wins.

Sometimes, a win is impossibly attractive. Sometimes a win glides across a crowded bar, bats its eyelashes and dazzles you with a memorable smile that changes your world.

Other times, like tonight, the win is a stranger that jumps into the backseat of your car in the parking lot, all yellow teeth and matted hair and bloodshot retinas.

Stranger: "Hey there. You wanna hangout tonight?"

You (glancing into rearview mirror): "Oh my God! What happened to you?"

But when this Jo Jo the Dog Faced Boy of a game was banished to history, when the wretched visage of nasty turnovers and repulsive broken plays and revolting defensive coverage and un-special teams and a slop oath from both sides had ended, it was the Leafs who were sitting pretty after winning ugly.

The final score was 2-1. A word cloud of this mess looked like this:

If not for the sensational goaltending of James Reimer and Al Montoya – I can't hear that surname without also hearing, "You killed my father. Prepare to die" – this one had very little to suggest two NHL teams were exchanged in late-February battle.

Watching the first and second periods was like watching a game of foosball on the deck of ship that was bobbing in choppy seas. It was like jumping on a Megadrop ride at an amusement park after consuming a glass of curdled milk and an iffy tuna sandwich.

Back and forth. Turnover. A botched chance here, a busted chance there. Giveaway. Back and forth. Blocked shot. Offside. Up and down. Teammates colliding. Here we go. Nope. Turnover. Back and forth. Giveaway. Missed hit.

I’m going to be violently ill.

It was 1-1 late in the third. Our eyes ached. Our stomachs were doing somersaults.

Both teams had exchanged hideous chances. Both teams were now fumbling in the dark, hoping the moonlight and flashing neon motel sign would not shine in through the blinds and let them get a good look at the other.

Pucks were clanging off posts. A cacophony of whistles kept stopping the play for hand passes and endless minor infractions and aborted rushes and scrums that more often than not featured one Zenon Konopka, a grating fellow who looks like he hawks refurbished cordless phones from the back of a stolen truck.

When the cameras cut to a crowd, there were mostly yawns and dazed expressions. The way things were going, or not going, the prospect of a 138-hour shootout involving every player, the trainers and ushers seemed very real.

Then with 4 minutes and 41 seconds left the third, before the game could hit that last branch of the ugly tree from which it fell, a moment of sheer beauty.

Phil Kessel gobbled up the puck in his own zone, activated the turbo-chargers and went end-to-end, one-on-three. He zigged across the blue line, zagged toward the middle and wristed a laser-beam past Montoya for the winner.

And just like that, the crowd finally had reason to stand and cheer. Just like that, the Leafs had closed their eyes real tight and planted a kiss on two ugly points. Just like that, this startled Aye-aye of a game had scampered back into the woods, leaving only a grim memory.

As a laconic Dion Phaneuf noted afterwards: "It wasn't the most exciting game."

No, that it was not. But winning is winning and two points are two points. The game may have sapped our will to live at certain points. But the result, once again, put another coat of improbable lipstick on the standings:

So it's on to Montreal for The Most Important Game Of The Season™ on Thursday night. The magnificent bastards are no doubt pleased this one ended the way it did. But if recent trips to the Bell Centre are a reliable guide, they will need to scrub up their game if they hope to snatch two more points, ugly or otherwise.

MAIN PHOTO: CHRIS YOUNG/CANADIAN PRESS

Comments

[A True Leafs Fan]

I really regret falling asleep during the second intermission I would have loved to see kessels goal. It seems Riembo really is a one man army. Keep it up!

VM Replies: Falling asleep? What? That's against the rules. I just went back into the post to add a link to Kessel's goal in case you still haven't seen it.

[Nik Culoman]

Fans hate on this team for each loss, than hate on them for each win....What in the world is a sloppy win?? Do they not count in the standings?? Will we even remember how "sloppy" this win was say two or three weeks down the road???

Can any of the madness stop???? I can't believe that a fan base who confesses to be patient and loyal, would be anything less than excited. This team finds itself like 5 points out, which I don't think they will reach the "P" but are playing some competitive and exciting hockey as of late. Heck maybe the stars are aligning themselves for these guys, who knows.

Nothing is ever good for you guys, and your true colors are starting to shine through....Vinay instead of writing some tabloid stuff like your fellow media buddies...Why not right something that is this less tabloid and show your true leaf colors by writing something positive.....

Everyone predicted doom and gloom after Kaberle left....Guess what...they are on a 2 game unbeaten streak and climbing up the standings....

VM Replies: Settle down, Culoman. Nobody is hating on anybody. Even the players said it was sloppy.
You really need to stop seeing demons where none exist.

[Brian K]

Weird, I thought it was a really exciting game. Messy sure, but I guess I really just wanted this one, and Montoya was driving me frickin nuts.

VM Replies: What is it about recently traded goalies?

[Peter]

VM, you never have to explain a victory. :-)
but tomorrow will be a lot more difficult. altough the Habs are not very good lately, they still beat VAN last night. we need those two points in the Bell Centre...

VM Replies: The Bell Centre has not been particularly hospitable this season. Let's hope they can get an early goal and erase those recent shutout memories.

[Peter]

True, the Bell centre is never a fun place to go, exept if you are winning. :-) i hate losing in the building more than anywhere else. i would love if they could stick it to the Habs and stop the fasn singing that stupid song...

VM Replies: That Ole song is sandpaper for opposition souls.
This just reminded me of something: Does anybody know the origins of that other song they sing in Montreal? That "Na na na na, hey hey hey, goodbye" one?
I had dinner with a friend recently who was in from out of town. She grew up in Vancouver. She says the goodbye song originated with the Canucks, not the Canadiens.
Is she right?

[Jon]

Vinay, u magnificent blog writing bastard !

Its a good sign when the Leafs play like they did last night and still come away with 2pts ! U never know, a little help here and there and we could make .... nope, i wont say it ! Boston's pick is looking worse by the game !! Btw, i watched the Marlies Monday and Colborne looks pretty good...i think Burke has a young Dave Andrechuck(spelling?) in the making ! Is it just me or do the Leafs have more great prospects then they've had in a looong time !

VM Replies: The prospects pool is growing. The gap toward the word we dare not speak is shrinking. No matter what happens this season, the future keeps getting brighter and brighter.

[Bruce Robb]

Funny writing. We need more of this. Made me laugh. Love the click throughs.

VM Replies: Thanks, Bruce.

[gettingcozywithsarkozy]

I love how nik spins everything to seem positive (that can actually be a good trait most of the time), like the "two game unbeaten streak" the Leafs are currently on. While I'm NOT a "half-empty" kinda person, I don't like to look at a shootout loss as a "non-loss" no matter what the official rules state.

And I'm with Brian K, while this was a very sloppy game, I thought that all the giveaways made for an exciting (although stressful) affair!

btw VM, thumbs up for the Konopka zing... cordless phones! Genius!

VM Replies: The laws governing shootouts don't make a lot of sense in the grander scheme of things. You lose but get a point. You score but don't get credit for a goal. You can even get a shutout after letting in the only non-goal goal of the game.

[We BeLeaf]

Well Vinay, you did it again! I too felt queasy as you described the game such as an amusement park ride, and then felt even worse with "both teams were now fumbling in the dark, hoping the moonlight and flashing neon motel sign would not shine in through the blinds and let them get a good look at the other." I immediately got a visual of Mike Brown portraying the role of Harry Reems in a classic Chesty Morgan flick....and enough said about that!

Go Leafs Go!
Cheers

VM Replies: Cheers to you, We BeLeaf. That said, "Mike Brown" and "Chesty Morgan" should never appear in the same sentence, let alone the same visual.

[We BeLeaf]

...and apparently Vinay, we were not the only ones who felt sick...
http://ca.sports.yahoo.com/nhl/news?slug=capress-hkn_islanders_leafs-6036128.

[A True Leafs Fan]

thanks for putting up that link Vinay. with the lack of sleep over the weekend and a long shift at work yesterday. I am suprised I made it through the second

VM Replies: Get some rest before tomorrow night. We need everybody focused and in tune with the bastards.

[Ken Baumgartner]

I have come relalize that Nik Culoman prefers spitting on fans than commenting on the game. When was the last time he said Reimer is playing great, or Kessel score a good goal compared to the last time he implied the fans were ignorant? Now he is not satisfied with the way you write Vinay. There is no pleasing this guy. Maybe if we start calling him ,"The all Knowing one," he will be satisfied. How bout it Nik is what you really want?

Maybe just maybe a little introspection could be had with this guy and he can find a way to ease His disdain for the majority of the fans.

Unless of course he just gets kicks out of trying to rile everybody up because he has nothing better to do, then he is acting like an $#*hole.
Oh well, if we were all the same, life would be boring.

ANYway, James Reimer's start to his career sure does remind me of when Felix Potvin started. He started turn heads from the beginning and everything with the team got better after that. Keep up the stellar job Optimus Reim.

VM Replies: It's hard to imagine the last few weeks without the kid.

[palbo]

Funny and descriptive VM. Princess Bride is my daughter's fave movie and i must admit, it's kinda grown on me. I wonder if Montoya has 6 fingers.

VM Replies: Good one. There were times last night when this Montoya looked like he had six legs, that's for sure.

[A True Leafs Fan]

@ Vinay

that song started way way back in the day. haven't you seen the movie Remeber the Titains?

VM Replies: No, haven't seen it.

[Peter]

i know Bananarama had something like that song, but i'm not sure.

VM Replies: The disjointed cultural references are flying this morning. I now regret finding this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmbEdVLokXo

[Michael C. Nemirsky]

Another fine column, VM, no matter what Mr. Sunshine, Nik Culoman has to say. Nik, this is a leafs fans blog, not for you to try and take over with your strong opinions and at times childish comments. This is one of the most cherished and respected blogs, so, show some respect. If you want to act like a bully, go on the TSN blogs, there are lots of those on that site. Anyway, now that I got that off my chest, "Jamesy Boy" Reimer, like, amazing. His interview and boyish grin after the win, priceless. This kid is the real deal. Finally, after so many years of horrible and inconsistent goaltending, we have found someone we can truly rely on. His cool and calm demeanor has infected the entire teams approach to how this game can be won, even without your top effort. Anyone else notice Kessel's yawn during the Canadian Anthem? Good thing he woke up when he did. Beauty of a goal and two more points. Next up, the Scabs from Montreal. We need that one badly.

VM Replies: The "winning without top effort" is a good point, Michael. They finally bought a discounted two points with cash.

[TPiddy]

This is more the kind of team I was expecting.... tough to play against, tough to score against. I knew we'd struggle to score this year, but I was also hopeful we wouldn't see many games where we allow 5, 6, 7 goals...

Interesting fact: Since swapping captain turnover (Beauchemin) for the tower of power (Aulie) we've allowed 8 goals in 5 games, or 1.6 goals per game. We're also 3-1-1 in those 5.

VM Replies: Captain Turnover? Gold. Thanks for the stats.
I remember Burke once telling me something like, "You don't have to score five goals if you don't give up four goals."

[TPiddy]

@Vinay - Absolutely... I figure if you build from the net out you shouldn't be giving up 5 or 6 goals a game. As many times as they've come back from deficits this year, there were just as many times where early goals buried their chances after the first period was over. Last 4 games have all been 1 goal decisions as well, and 1 goal games are a very telling stat for any team.

[Alecia]

I know that two points is two points and that we should take the win and look towards tomorrow but I can’t help but wonder if this is what we are going to see from this team in the remaining 22 games. Ever since the Kaberle trade, the team just seems ... lost? Confused? Scattered? I don’t know.

Let’s just hope they got over their post-Kaberle stress disorder by tomorrow and are able to turn things around in Montreal. This team definitely seems to have a tendency to skate harder against the better teams and to fumble around against the weaker teams, even when those teams are on fire as of late (Devils & Islanders).

By the way Vinay, you can’t ever judge the crowd at the ACC by what you see in the lower bowl. Majority of the real blue and white fans sit in the upper bowl, our surprised/overjoyed/shocked/frozen/tearful/disappointed faces never make TV. Games where the majority of the game is tied tend to be very tense at the ACC and therefore somewhat quiet, but I managed to overcome that by spending the better of my time in the upper bowl reminding the lovely group of gentlemen in front of me that they had ugly orange on their blue and white jerseys. They kindly inquired when the Leafs won the cup last so I politely reminded them that they were, in fact cheering for that other orange team. They seemed grateful for the reminder. Fun was had by all, especially during that beauty of a goal by Kessel. Wow, just wow Kessel. Really makes up for the rest of the game.

*Sigh* Despite the lackluster effort last night, we move on forward to Montreal tomorrow with hope in our hearts. Aw, go you magnificent bastards, just go!!!!!!!!

By the way, can someone explain the logic or purpose of wearing a Habs jersey to a Leafs vs. Islander game?

VM Replies: I bet this person wore it just to annoy you.

[Alecia]

Oh by the way, this image was up on the jumbotron at the ACC last night:

http://image.spreadshirt.com/image-server/image/composition/17633495/view/1/producttypecolor/17/type/png/width/280/height/280/optimus-reim_design.png

So I think that Optimus Reim is now an official nickname.

[We BeLeaf]

@ Bomber,

If Reimer keeps up his stellar performances he will officially be counted in the NHL stats. That means he would be in the top 5 in the ranking of his average (GAA) and save percentage. I wonder if Giggy is in a rush to come back, and will Wilson play him as soon as he's ready?

[Sensi-Bill]

Vinay
.
That live version by Bananarama is atrocious.
.
I would much prefer hearing the original by Steam.
.
I had assumed you were asking which team originated the tradition of singing this song at hockey games. If by chance you were asking who originally came out with this song, it was indeed the at-first fictitious band called Steam in 1969.
.
It was recorded as a B-side of a 45 (rpm) single by some studio musicians who released it under the group name Steam, though no such band existed.
.
As happened from time to time back then, a radio DJ flipped over his copy and started playing the song, called Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye, and it ultimately became a No. 1 hit.
.
I know it's not Leafs related but it is an interesting story, details of which can be found on Wikipedia at en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steam_(band) 
.
Vinay, I hope this link works. I typed it up first in another program and what I assumed was the underscore character on this tablet didn't seem to work, taking me to the entry on steam, rather than the entry on the band called Steam. So if it doesn't work, perhaps you could redo the link and delete this explanation. Thanks. (By the way, I turned 21 that year and that song was played endlessly on Top 40 radio.)

VM Replies: Thank you, William. It's nice to have a music critic around here.
And, yes, I'm still wondering where the song was first co-opted as an anthem: Vancouver or Montreal.

[loyal he remains]

"Kiss Him Goodbye" was written by studio musicians, who invented the name "Steam" for themselves (in 1969). It's been covered by everyone under the sun. My copy is by The Nylons.

VM Replies: Thank you.

[Peter]

Alecia,

seriously they put that pic up on the jumbotron? that's really cool!

[Alecia]

@Peter – they sure did. They said something about him and then put that picture up. Very cool!

Also, thought this was interesting. It was reported last night that Reimer nearly left the game due to abdominal pains but pulled through the entire game. Unbelievable. What else can you say about this kid?

Can I call someone nearly my age a kid?

[Michael C. Nemirsky]

VM, I am not absolutely positive on this, but, I do believe the song was played at Manchester United Football (soccer) games. As Mr. Gillette used to be a part owner of both teams, he introduced the song to the scab fans. That's how I was told it occurred, but, cannot back it up with any proof.

VM Replies: Thanks, Michael.

[palbo]

Does anyone know what % of total games reimer needs to play to officially show up in the stats (he's played in 16 of 60 Leaf games). At this pt, his save % is .934, second only to thomas at .939. He is ahead of such luminaries as: Hiller, Luongo, Fleury, Price, Lundquist, Rask and the list goes on. Hope i'm not jinxing him, but would love to know when his stats will be officially recognized.

VM Replies: Good question. I can check unless somebody else knows the answer.

[We BeLeaf]

@ palbo, VM

I read he needs one more game to be officially counted.

VM Replies: Thank you, We BeLeaf.

[Peter]

Reimer is unbelieveble. i don't want to jinx him, but looks like the Leafs have a No.1 guy in net.
that pic would be an awsome mask design for him and the name would look very good on there, too.

[palbo]

Thx We BeLeaf. Appreciate the info.

[Alecia]

@Peter, it's actually a shirt.

We all need to wear one when we go watch the home opener from Vinay's executive Star box at the ACC.

[gettingcozywithsarkozy]

@ palbo: Enigo Montoya didn't have six fingers, that was prince humper-dink's sidekick.

[Princess Mononoke]

The Goodbye song absolutely predates Mr Gillette, my friends. I am about the same age as the last Leafs Cup (to put it coyly), and we used to sing it when I was a child and went to playoff games at the old Forum in Montreal. Ergo the custom is at least 30 yrs old.

[We BeLeaf]

Speaking about Reimer again, I think he's proving that he could be the number guy. His demeanor and calmness show in his play which does remind me of how Felix played. I think he needs to play every game the rest of the way (with the exception of this Sunday when hopefully we could see Scrivens get the start against the Thrashers), so that he can improve his game.

Now in regards to his nickname, I have a question to ask. Are we conceding that "Optimus Reim" has been been officially coined by McGuire? It seems he is using it every chance he gets, and it appears that t-shirts are being made. It's not that I don't like it, it's just seems like something you would have seen on a pair of "Underoos" back in the 80's.

[Geoff Read]

I can second the Princess on this one - the Na Na Na Goodbye song has been around since I've been watching... that's not quite as long as her, but not too far off. And I definitely don't remember anyone in Vancouver singing it.

And I'm pretty sure the song originates here... which is just plain awesome. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jsaTElBljOE

VM Replies: Thanks, Geoff (and Princess). I'm getting closer and closer to winning my bet.

[TPiddy]

Officially, Reimer won't count in the stats until he's played at least a third of eligible games. He'll need 28 appearances by the end of the season, or at least 12 of the next 20. I think his chances are good, but will he really be in the Vezina or Calder discussion? It's unfortunate, but I don't think he will.

[Michael C. Nemirsky]

McGuire should get credit for nothing involving the leafs! He, and Healey, are the two biggest back-stabbers involving leaf games in the business. They are always critical of every move leaf management and player personell that is not perceived in their belief of how the team should be operated and played. Personally, I like the nickname "Jamesy Boy". It exudes the youthfulness in which he plays and the old gangster image of how he steals victories for the leafs. I seen the character in an old movie. Agree, disagree?

[loyal he remains]

For Reimer, I like "The Equalizer." Reimer's the one who takes a young team that isn't quite ready for prime time and gives them a chance to win every game he's in. 'Fraid I can't learn to like "Optimus Reim." The Transformer thing just isn't quite Reimer, although Optimus Prime does have a bit of personality.

[Peter]

Alecia,

I want one of these shirts! Would love to go to that game in one of these!
I've been to the ACC only once, sadly. that was a home opener against the Habs a few years ago (we won in OT). :-)
McGuire should not get any credit about anything conserning the Leafs!

[pinot grigio]

Vinay, clearly people will keep questioning one another's true loyalty to the team, that's inevitable. Don't forget that besides everything else this blog is, it is a virtual therapy group for unrequited love addicts. Addicts who have been frustrated for more than 40 years. In many cases as long as they have been alive. That is love and that is unrequited.

You, Vinay, are the therapist. I see you as a modern Bob Newhart who following a clever introduction moves the discussion along with dry humor and minimalist deft touches. Most of us are addicts but there are a few co-dependents present as well, e.g, HRH the Princess Mononoke, who lives with a Leaf addict, and possibly Sensi-Bill who may of course also just be a closet Leaf addict.

Each of us copes with our frustrations in our own way, sometimes higher than a kite - when the object of our love smiles coquettishly at us and plays with skill and abandon - but more often lower than a common garden slug when they disappoint us once again. Some of us are sarcastic, some are overly optimistic, some are just angry and many are plain numb. It comes with the territory that we get on each other from time to time because the other person acts in a way we find inappropriate and incomprehensible. And often we hurt so bad... It is your job, psychotherapist Bob, I mean Vinay, to channel it all and help us heal.

It would be very interesting to see what would happen if the Leafs actually were to win one year. How would this group then react? Will we ever find out? Stay tuned.

(there may be a tv movie script hidden in all this.)

Bob Replies: You always supply an admirable dose of perspective for the group, pinot.

[kneeboard85]

Hey Vinay, I put a lot of stock in what old man cherry says but I haven't heard him raise this point in regards to Kessel. I heard him say once you can tell when a player is unhappy in their surroundings when they stop celebrating their goals. Kessel doesn't even seem to raise his arms or stick, even his streak breaker against Boston he just let out a long exhale. I don't read into the media too much but that really looks to me like a signal that something isn't right and that he isn't enjoying coming to the rink this year. Watch that clip you linked, whoever it is streaking behind the net seems excited Kessel scored whereas Kessel always just looks meh, I don't think he's always been like that. Your thoughts?

VM Replies: I thought he looked excited in Boston, though maybe more relieved than excited. I'll have to check the video on his last few goals and compare them to video from his first few goals this season.

[We BeLeaf]

I've always liked Smiley as a nickname for Reimer. Sure it doesn't strike fear into the hearts of anyone trying to score, but picture this: his mask is molded to resemble that of the Joker and painted in Leafs colours. On the back it could even say "Why so serious?"

[moe green]

Yeah for someone who wasn't a teenager in the 90s and didn't have kids, I can't quite embrace Optimus Reim. Of course I've never seen Optimus Prime. Okay maybe a glimpse from that recent crap film. But he doesn't seem in any way like James Reimer. Then again, Reimer did transform himself from a mild-mannered farm boy into a huge puck stopping machine? Okay, Optimus Reim for me until I hear something better.

I can't support "Jamesey Boy" or "The Equalizer."

For Reimer: Deflector, Defendor, The Force, Weimer-Reimer, The Singularity, Big Bang, Gravity, Cup Run, Six-hole, A New Hope. Deathstar, Depthstar, Poet, Plug, Stopper, Zero.

Okay, all those suck - Optimus Reim for me.

Net-neutrality, Net-presence, Webster, Homer, Goomer, Goofball, The Monster, Sirius, First Star, Bright Eyes, Nemesis?

VM Replies: Big Bang?

[Johnny the Juice]

VM-Hey Hey Goodbye originated in Montreal not Vancouver. Vancouver steals everything from the Habs including the Ole song after they score, and playing U2 during the pre-game skate.

BTW, why is the Montreal game the Most Important of the season?

VM Replies: Thank you, Johnny. Every game is The Most Important from this point on.

[We BeLeaf]

I think this nickname was mentioned in past blogs....

Reimbo

[A True Leafs Fan]

Some one said it best in an earlier blog. but his nick name should be James "Rambo" Riemer or "Riembo". honestly think about it

John Rambo
James Riemer

Rambo is an absolute tank that can defeat his enemies all by himself.

Riemer is a monster between the Pipes that can win games all by himself.

Rambo can be shot beaten and stabbed and still defeat the bad guy

Riemer can take 30-40 shots and still have a shutout.

Optimus Reim, is a cute little name but Riembo is Bad Ass

[Boo Who?]

Oh you have no idea how pleased I am to know that I'm not the only one with a knee-jerk response to hearing the name "Montoya". I love TPB.

I am probably around the right age to favour 'Optimus Reim' as a nickname. Because I can remember playing with (the original) Transformers toys, as well as their less popular counterparts, the GoBots. As smiley and relaxed as he is off the ice, that boy is practically reptilian when he's on the job. Love seeing those baby blues peering out through his mask with that expression of cold-blooded efficiency. Reminds me of Cujo.

@Alecia - you are the unsung hero of the day, homeslice! No lemon squares before the game and your magic is back!! *high five*

[Robert]

Vinay: Thank goodness there is no prize for neatness!

I missed some of the first period, actually, I think I missed all of the first period. A game like this one really tests your mental fortitude. When things are bad and clumsy many folks would quit, or lay back. Last night these bog trotting blue and white bastards did not give up. Sure they couldn't get out of each other's way, but that was done on purpose to confuse the Isles.

Then when the Isles were completely out to lunch, we launched Kessel!
Nothing to it, really.

[Adam]

The Reiminator

[A True Leafs Fan]

@ robert

Wow. I know its not up to me but you have my vote for comment of the day."Sure they couldn't get out of each other's way, but that was done on purpose to confuse the Isles.
Then when the Isles were completely out to lunch, we launched Kessel!"

you just made my day.

[Alecia]

@Robert – it amazes me that people sick with the blue and white disease are actually able to turn off the TV during a game, even a really really bad one. I have never ever been able to do that. I have stood up, arms in the air claiming I was “done” and “fed up” only to sit back down and continue watching. The most I have ever mustered up the courage to do was lower the volume…slightly.

Sometimes these damn bastards just really surprise you…. *Sigh*

[nugentmania]

James Jacob ReimerheimerSchmidt.

Wait a second....his name was my name too......

[Alecia]

@moe - Oh my god, I laughed hard at "Weimer-Reimer" but only because I have a Weimaraner and despite his athletic and fit appearance, he is one lazzzzzzzzy dog.

[moe green]

Yes Big Bang Vinay. First there was nothingness, then the Big Bang.

[A True Leafs Fan]

@ alecia
how do you get all your tickets for the games? I just tried and they say it is all sold out from here to the end of the season

[ostrich_lover]

Moe all those suck. Try this: "Big Daddy Rhyme-Time" it rolls right of the tounge.

Great game by the Leafers. My guest blog's defence of Burkie just gets more accurate by the day.

[ostrich_lover]

Here is a thought :
With Burke saying he is going after a defencman as his number one priortity - and not having it happen immediatley makes me think that he is pursuing a legit long term presence – could Burke be satisfied with what he has at forward? Will the last defenceman be the final piece of the rebuild? If so, he could package Grabovski and the two first rounders for someone like Bogosian or Pieterabgelo (I know I spelt that wrong) - Assuming he signs Clarke, Grabbo could be expendable.

next years forwards?

Kessle - Kadri - Lupul
Macarthur- Colbourne - Kulemin
Brown - Bozak - Armstrong
Rosehill - Brent - Boyce

Riemer

[Alecia]

Vinay, need I write a guest post on how to Master the Art of Obtaining Leafs tickets? Perhaps this is a good summertime post in prepartion for what will be the glorious season of 2011-2012?

@ A True Leafs Fan - I posted my secret in a blog a few games back. I can repost it or you can ask Vinay for my email, I can try to help you.

VM Replies: That would be a good guest post. Start writing!

[Robert]

@Alecia; Hey, I didn't get home until the first period was over! Turn off the TV, never! Sorry if I misled you, I watched the second and third with a can of German beer. Only 'cause, I'm not speaking to the Captain. Regards

[waffles2010]

I gotta be honest the picture of Konopka and Schenn should be in the dictionary under hockey player.

[loyal he remains]

For Reimer, what about "The Wall"? Cue Pink Floyd.

[Peter]

Alecia,
very good idea about the post on how to get tickets. i think there would be a lot of interest.

[TPiddy]

While I won't take credit for coming up with the name, I think I was the first to throw "Reimbo" up on ALF Blogs. While I do prefer "Reimbo" to "Optimus Reim", it seems the marketing machine is running with the latter moniker.

VM Replies: You were the first.
I'm not a big fan of Optimus Reim, either. It somehow reminds me of Shoppers Drug Mart. And since Gustavsson has not fared well after the whole "Goose" business, I'm trying to stay away from goalie nicknames.

[gettingcozywithsarkozy]

Alecia: on the topic of obtaining Leaf tickets... this has also proven difficult in other markets as well. Take for example, my current town: Detroit (metro, not proper). Alas, when Red Wing tickets went on sale back in August, I hopped online to their website to select the Mar 26 date for when the Leafs come to town. There was an asterisk (*) next to the Leafs game and when I scrolled down to see what this signified, it said "this game available in 19 game and season ticket packages only at this time." Now this would be fine and dandy should the Leafs play the wings 19 times this year, however, they don't. So, I wasn't about to buy 19 wing games to watch the Leafs once.

A week later or so, single game tickets to all games went on sale at exactly 10 am. I got onto the wings site at exactly 10:02am and by then the only deal I could get for the Leaf game (that included 2 tickets) was standing room at $77/piece. This should tell you something when a few years ago, you could get on the glass at wing games during the regular season for $90. Also, add to the fact that on most nights this season, the Joe has been at most two-thirds full!! Arggh!!!!

[Vinay Menon]

I think TPiddy already covered this but just heard back from Leafs re: Reimer's stats.
Here's the direct quote: "James needs to have played 21 games (six more) to be among the leaders right now and 25 NHL games total at the end of the season to be included in the season end league leaders."

[Boo Who?]

I just finished watching the highlights (was stuck listening to the game yesterday). If those were the most exciting plays, yeah, I didn't miss much. But that Kessel goal was a beauty. I'm okay with him being subdued about scoring. (Grabbo barely cracks a smile when he scores.) In fact, I want Kessel to be an absolute d***head about scoring. I want him to do it so much, he gets bored and yawns as he's doing it.

No word on the re-signing of MacArthur. No new d-man. I feel nervous and I'm not sure why.

[moe green]

@Ostrich: You're clearly not an expert at Nicknaming.

[Alecia]

Okay, just a warning. I am no ticket-insider…
I’ve gone to 11 (I think) games so far this season and people keep asking how I get tickets, I must know something others don’t? I am not sure exactly what that is but it’s definitely not just luck. I definitely LOOK for tickets.

Vinay, I'll definitely write a guestblog about this...but only under the circumstance that people who use my knowledge to find tickets, must take me to the game. Fair deal, I think.

VM Replies: You're cutting side deals long before the first word is written? I suddenly understand why you're able to get all these tickets.

[Princess Mononoke]

@OL: You're pretty fly, for a white guy! (to quote Offspring)
Also: Leafs, hockey, Burke, wins, losses: no offense meant, but it's not *about you.*

[palbo]

@VM - the numbers look funny re reimer. not disputing your info, but 21 games of 60 is 35% - but then 4 more games of 22 (left in season) to reach 25 is only 18%. not sure i see the logic or rationale. as well, ESPN has Reimer appearing in 16 games this season, not 15.
'course the NHl isn't that logical anyways i guess.

VM Replies: Hmmm. The info I shared was verbatim from the organization. So not sure. I honestly don't know what formula is used to calculate eligibility (it's been a long time since I've thought of "league leaders" and "Leaf goalies" at the same time).
But if the 25 games at season end is a firm starting point, that translates into 30 per cent (for 82 games). He's played 16 games now out of a possible 60, so he's at 27 per cent. So either the number they put in parentheses (six) was wrong (maybe it should be four) or there is a sliding formula at play that's not a function of uniform proportion.
I'll check again once my brain stops hurting.

[ostrich_lover]

Wow if you have money you can get tickets? Who knew. Use kijiji you can tickets for any game there....now, if you are somehow able to get free tickets that is impressive.

[Alecia]

No no Vinay. No deals. If I was cutting deals with people to take me to games, how would I write anything about getting tickets?
I happen to think it’s a fair deal. If others know my secret, that will automatically mean there will be more people trying to buy and that will reduce my chances of obtaining tickets. I can’t have that happen.

Oh and for the record, with the exception of the last game of the season against the Habs in April, I have paid for all the games I have/had tickets for myself. No deals. ;)

[Peter]

Alecia, you are on! :-)

[Billy]

@kneeboard85 and Vin
Just took a look on youtube to compare Kessel goal celebrations from the first week of the season and now... All I can say is... Uh Oh.
He was pumped at the beginning of the season. I have no doubt at this point that he wants out. His comments always seem to include the word "here". As in “Obviously, I’ve had my chances here but fortunately, I was able to go end to end.” From last night. Why do you have to say here? Unless you want to be "there"...
I just realized that I have to be a Leaf fan the same way I am a husband. You'll only win when you realize that you'll never win.

VM Replies: Thanks for checking and for the analysis, Billy.
Also, your last paragraph is now entered in Comment of The Day.

[Geoff Read]

After tomorrow night's game, his nickname will be James "Red Light" Reimer.

VM Replies: Oh, man. You are so evil.

[A True Leafs Fan]

@ Alecia.

If you can get some tickets for me not only will I take you I will buy you dinner and all the 10 dollar beers you can drink. I have been looking for tickets since the last game I went to(Leafs vs Canucks) the only ones I could find were the ones I had no chance in affording.

[Alecia]

Billy, I have to disagree with you on Kessel. I’ve seen multiple interviews with Kessel talking about Toronto and I think he genuinely wants to stay in Toronto. Let’s all give the kid a break, even when he was slumping, he was still trying. Yes he can work harder on the boards and play a more defensive game but he is no Versteeg, he looks like a player who wants to stay here, in my opinion. I’d rather see him frustrated when he goes through his slumps rather than play it cool like Versteeg. He wants to do well and do it here in Toronto.

I saw one interview with Kessel in particular where he spoke about the differences between playing here and playing in Boston and it looks like he genuinely wants to be here. Despite the fact that Boston has been a superior team, Kessel has stated that he loves being here because the passion for the game here in Toronto is on a whole different level than Boston, where they have the Sox and Celtics.

Besides, while Burke is here, I can’t see Kessel being moved. He has repeatedly stated his faith in him, slump or no. I want to see Kessel stay and develop here, and I think he has a lot of potential to do so.

[moe green]

I can't see MacArthur leaving. That said, I couldn't imagine Moore leaving last year either. I don't think MacArthur leaving would be very good for team morale. Same for Grabovski. Then again, team morale doesn't seem to be something Burke cares much about at this point.

A note on the Phaneuf trade. Hagman cleared waivers yesterday so he is poised to join the AHL. Soon only Stajan will remain and he only just barely. The Leafs have all the components from that deal in their lineup: Phaneuf, Aulie and Sjostrom. Nice one Burkey!

[Boo Who?]

If we lose Kessel and MacArthur, I am officially breaking up with the Maple Leafs. Again. And I'm blaming it all on Ron Wilson. This is why we can't have nice things!!

Lupul is taking the day off. Hope that's not a back thing. I'm all nervous again. Who is making Reimer sick?! Stop it, before I stop YOU. And now the Habs are approaching. To borrow the words of our friend Rooney, "Who do I booyaka?" I don't know. With the way I'm feeling, everyone is in my sights.

[Alecia]

@Boo! Calm yourself woman!! Deep breathes, DEEP BREATHES!

Kessel isn’t going anywhere. Lupul was under the weather today and did not skate in practice, but he WILL play tomorrow.

As for MacArthur, Burke stated that he does want to resign him but only to a contract that makes sense. If he asks for too much, he will be shopped. I feel pretty comfortable that Burke will resign him given MacArthur’s desire to stay in the city. Burke has also stated that the current roster is pretty much safe. But who knows? After Kaberle, I don’t think I can handle watching MacArthur leave too. I think our next trade, if there is one, will be a package of draft picks, and I wouldn’t be surprised if Kadri went. I know, I know, don’t yell at me. I didn’t say I want it, I say it wouldn’t surprise me given his reputation for not getting along with Toronto’s management.

[Princess Mononoke]

Ok, Mr Read and other fellow Habsters, when does the trash-talking officially begin? ;)
I really don't feel like p***ing anyone off here, since I am a guest and there's nothing worse than a guest who comes over to scream at you and dump on the things you love.....
Having said that, ya'll realize tomorrow is also a MUST WIN for us, right? {sorry for shouting in your living room}

VM Replies: Oh God. You scare me when you're all hopped up like this.

[Billy]

Alecia - I'm not trying to ride Kessel. I think he's great and would love to see him here for a long time. All I was confirming was an earlier observation made by kneeboard. He's right - Kessel doesn't have the fire he did during the first month. Is it because he hates it here? Because they have a slim chance at the playoffs? I don't know, but this is the reality. If I was him right now, I don't think I'd be celebrating very hard, simply because it doesn't really matter this season, even if they squeak in. Maybe if they get a little closer, the fire will pick up. At least that's what I am hoping for.

[TimB]

I remember the goodbye song being sung only when a team was about to be eliminated in the playoffs.Does not really make sense otherwise.

VM Replies: You raise a good point. Mind you, if thousands of people started singing that song spontaneously in the first period of a pre-season game, that could do some real psychological damage.

[gettingcozywithsarkozy]

Geoff: Sorry, carey-blueberry already owns that nickname.

[Robert]

I am sorry, but Burke is dealing with MacArthur through the press. 'We would like him but only if we can afford him' That sort of crap is between Burkie and the agent. It only makes MacArthur look bad if the deal doesn't get done!
Let us face up to the facts Mr. Burke. As far as I know, everyone on this team would like to stay there! You do need to do some upgrades, but, as much as possible pls try to do them and further negotiations with some sophistication.
We happen to like Mac. We think he is a nice fit. Do us, Leaf Fans a favour, find a way to keep him.

[Princess Mononoke]

@sarkozy...please. You're going to compare a lil' guy who's got good stats after playing 16 games with a guy who's got good stats after playing ...ahem... 54 games??????

VM Replies: And so it begins...

[Boo Who?]

@ Alecia - Thank you. It takes a special person to stop me dead in my tracks when I start hopping around like a boxing kangaroo. You my friend, have just become one of those people. Kessel is at home with his hot chick, complaining about how sick he is of scoring goals and he just *knows* he's gonna end up doing it again. Lupul is on the couch in a fluffy robe and slippers, catching up on the episodes of The View he PVR'ed. And Supes is somewhere looking out at the Toronto skyline and saying 'Tell Burkie I'll take it.' Ahhhhh. I feel better. :D

@ Princess - I'm asking you in advance to avert your eyes if I say anything about the Habs! Because chances are good, I will. ;) It's not about you personally, my family are a lovely bunch of people, etc. etc.

[Billy]

Reimer Stats - He currently has a little over 900 minutes played. As of today, he would need 1020 minutes to count in the leader stats. Basically he needs to play a minimum of 28% of the minutes or about 22 games for the total season to count.

Who came up with this formula?

Hey, that dog has a fluffy tail!

[Charlee001]

Good day Vinay. Great blog as usual. And sure the game was kind of ugly but a win is still a win (in regulation too!!) and I will take it without complaint. In fact this win is special to me because:

1. it is the Leafs first win without Kaberle.
2. Optimus was an octopus. Again.
3. Phil Kessel scored the type of goal we expect from him.

Now, on to stiffer competition. Montreal. This is the first significant test of the team's mettle A.K. (after Kaber). Montreal will want to keep us down and they will be in the mood to do it given our rivalry and having beaten Vancouver this week.

Kessel not showboating after goals? I like it. He's serious and so he should be. He and this team have a lot to prove. The whole NHL thinks Toronto is a joke. Even some of our own fans (trolls) want nothing more than to be proven correct when they say that the more things change in Leafland the more they stay the same. And Kessel sitting there waiting to be picked last at The All Star game; I wonder what was going through his mind. If I was him I wouldn't be celebrating or smiling either. I'd just let the stick do the talking. Payback is a B. Nuff said.

Nice guys finish last. Stay serious. Go Leafs Go. You guys rock!!

VM Replies: Always great to hear from you, Charlee001. We'll need you tomorrow to help fight Geoff Read and the Princess.

[leafland'r]

Reimer nickname?
I like A True Leaf Fan's ( 6:59am) reference as Reimbo.
With only two syllables, it can be chanted from the chants.

Optimus Reim is good, but doesn't roll off your tongue for giving credit chants after big saves.

VM Replies: The chanting is important.

[TimB]

Does anyone know why Estella Warren won't answer my emails?

[CPH]

As regards "Hey hey goodbye" song, I remember hearing it at White Sox games BEFORE I moved back to Toronto in 1976. Montreal may have used it before Vancouver, but I doubt that they were the first sports team to use it.

VM Replies: Thanks, CPH.

[TimB]

Okay,does anyone know why Konopka wasn't decked? The phone he sold me was a piece of junk.

[palbo]

OK ... so enuff already about kessel not celebrating enuff after a goal. i remember don cherry saying several years ago (when Brett Hull was scoring like a machine) that Brett told him he didn't celebrate much after a goal out of respect for the other team ... he didn't want to rub their faces in it. Don concurred. I watched Brett after that, and his goal celebrations were indeed low-key. I approve of little goal celebration and i don't think we should read anything into it.

[leafland'r]

Kessel's goal was pretty to watch.
He certainly deserves credit.
However, I can't help but think that IF Kessel's shot missed the net or was easily stopped then his one man end-to-end rush may have appeared as a frustrated and desparate drive. Considering the "sloppy" game last night, Kessel may have given up the playmaking idea and thought,"Hell, no sense wasting any more passes. I guess I'll just have to break drill patterns and do it myself".
His expression after the goal may have been something like, "There...done..let's move on".
I am not trying to put words in his mind, but his body language seemed to be telling a tale re: last night's game..
I'm for cheering on Kessel, but there was a fine line with the outcome in leaving your linemates standing around.
Yet, I'm in favour of seeing more goals any which way you can.

[Billy]

Anyone use Google? Seems like the answer is right here:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Na_Na_Hey_Hey_Kiss_Him_Goodbye

[leafland'r]

"Na.....Goodbye" link...... Harford Whalers !!?? Haven't these guys heard about the Montreal Canadiens north of the border !?

[gettingcozywithsarkozy]

Hey Princess, no one mentioned anything about comparing. I believe it's a well-known fact that "red light" belongs to Price and I believe it originated out of the bell centre. So, you shouldn't be so angry, it was your own kind who dubbed him with the name!

[Alecia]

Alright, someone google Price's stats for his first 16 NHL games....no? no takers?

[Boo Who?]

I just want to say one last thing with regard to nicknaming Reimer - if the Optimus Reim thing sticks there is no easy chant to be had. Nothing is going to work unless you train people to say it as a response to some sort of trigger (like a Transformer-y type noise or the first part of a famous character quote).
Let's see..."Autobots, roll out!" is just not that cool and sounds out of place at a hockey game.
"One shall stand, one shall fall." Cooler, if you can get the first part over the PA, and then get the crowd to chant the rest?
Megatron is on record for screaming the word 'Priiiiiiiiime!' somewhere, but I can't find a clip for the life of me. I found this - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9hJkvwoddxY - and had to hit pause pretty quickly because it sounds like I'm watching a very creepy...'you know'...to anyone outside my office. And this all makes me sad the Monster isn't burning things up in the NHL, because getting people to break into roars after a save would be easy by comparison.

Holy crap. I'm a sad little nerd. :(