Game 74: When a perfect game means nothing in the race
Damn you, Montreal! Damn you, Ottawa! Damn you, Florida!
You ruined a perfectly good 3-0 victory tonight. Your inability to win took the sheen off James Reimer's third shutout. It sullied the Leafs' symmetrical and lethally efficient output of one goal per period on a measly 17 shots.
I know, I know. It is folly to assign blame to Montreal, Ottawa, Florida or anybody else. It's not their fault. Given the number of points Toronto squandered in the first half, it's a small miracle they are even in this improbable race.
Still, it's frustrating to watch this team capitalize on chances, get stellar goaltending, earn another road win and, yet, have it mean jacksquat in the grand scheme of things. "Keeping pace" may be technically correct but there is one less game to play now, which is significant with so few remaining.
You can't keep pace indefinitely.
But that's where we are.
All the Leafs can do now is win their games and hope to hell others lose. That is the nature of any race when you are behind. Tonight, they ran as fast as they could – and give them full credit for that – but nobody ahead had the decency to stumble and trip.
My wife and mother-in-law both overuse the phrase, "Simple as that."
There's an election coming. Simple as that. We'll need to think about fertilizing the lawn soon. Simple as that. The cats need their claws trimmed. Simple as that. (Actually, there is nothing simple about that as the scratch on my cheek now reveals.)
Where the race is concerned, the Leafs forfeited control of their destiny in December. Now with eight games to go, their fate is shared among a rotating cast of teams.
So with Buffalo, Carolina and the Rangers also winning tonight – see the aforementioned "damns" – this impressive Leaf victory was for statistical naught. The relative standings did not change. The magnificent bastards remain in 10th spot, five points out of eighth spot, just like when the night started.
Simple as that.
The game itself seemed to unfold in slow motion. It was understated, at times almost hypnotically so.
The highlights, really, were three breakaway saves Reimer made in the first two periods. Everything else had a workman-like quality that was accentuated by the drab atmosphere inside the misleadingly named Xcel Energy Center.
My God, we complain about the ACC. But who programs the music in Minnesota? Is it a tone-deaf birthday clown? Ernie and Bert? That Muzak version of Zeppelin's "Kashmir" they played in the first was excruciating.
No wonder the Wild are struggling.
What's with the public address announcer? Did they find him at a passport office, where he perfected his delivery by calling out next-in-line numbers in a groggy monotone? And what's with the hometown broadcasters? I gather they had trouble pronouncing certain Leaf names this evening.
It's weird. I mean, considering they have to repeatedly say "Clayton Stoner" and "Cal Clutterbuck" – try saying "Clutterbuck" five times quickly and see what it turns into – you'd think "Phaneuf" would be a welcome change.
But I digress.
Never mind the race for a minute.
The good news is this: The Leafs are coming together, slowly but surely. The sum of the parts is taking shape. The future is bright. And after more parts are added this summer, it will be even brighter.
And so in the long-term, let's call it the journey to distinguish it from the short-term race, it feels like they've finally passed a critical junction. Instead of young and drifting aimlessly they are young and moving forward.
Are there still rough patches ahead? Undoubtedly. Will there be moments in which we fling inanimate objects at our television sets or demand so-and-so's head on a platter? Probably.
But tonight, once again, we watched a team that's learning to win in new ways while learning not to lose in old ways. They should be proud of their second-half accomplishments. If they can start next season the way they are finishing this one, we won't be scoreboard watching or eating lemon squares or blaming others come March.
Simple as that.
MAIN PHOTO: ANDY KING/REUTERS
every win means something bro even if we don't make the playoffs every win they get now will benefit them in the years to come and besides we don't wanna give Boston that high pick now do we lol!
Posted by: Hockeynut66 | 03/23/2011 at 03:44 AM
Just meandered through all the comments from Moe's blog and game thread last night.
@Hensibill I always thought you were a punk. Now I know you are. 'Peeramid Poower?' How old are you? What ARE you doing on this blog? RepreHENsibill behaviour.
As usual, you are dismissed with not one iota of respect.
I'd like to meet you in person, and wipe those little wicked grins and :g's right off your sourpuss, but anyway enough words and energy have been expended on the likes of you.
@pinot Comment of the night was the last one along with the Canadiens undies ruining our playoff chances exchange. lol I laughed hard at yours though pinot. Good streams and prostate problems. :) Freakin' classic. I miss so much while just posting up a bloody storm to calm my frayed nerves.
Superb blog as always Vinay. Love it. Clayton Stoner, Cal Clutterbuck, Clayton Stoner, Cal Clutterbuck, Clayton Stoner, Cal Clutterbuck. Yup. I am exhausted.
Hearing Phanoof all night made me laugh amongst so much other ignorant commentary by the Wild announcers. Wild. I like to call Phaneuf Phanoof just because he hits hard, but I would never unintentionally mispronounce his name like they did all night.
One would think that the home state of quality NCAA hockey power and possibly the best high school hockey in the world would have a couple of knowledgable announcers. I know we don't often play the Wild, but their ignorance and homerism was breathtaking. I know Sarkozy and I sure enjoyed a good chuckle or ten.
See y'all in Denver shortly. Well, I hope to see the vast majority of y'all. Some of you I would prefer not to including the above noted child.
Posted by: Pyramid Power | 03/23/2011 at 04:43 AM
Good post as usual Vinay.
.
Simple as that.
Posted by: Sensi-Bill | 03/23/2011 at 07:07 AM
great post, VM! nice way of starting the day.
great win by the boys. a win is a win, no matter what it means in the standing.
not surprised the Sens lost, after all the selling they did before the trade dead-line, hardly any team left there. as for the stinking Habs, well, they just stink when it's matter as usual. Panthers are the same category as the Sens, no surprise there...
Posted by: Peter | 03/23/2011 at 07:40 AM
was everyone really banking on the fact that the Scabs would win? you never trust the scabs for anything other than being scabs.
Posted by: A True Leafs Fan | 03/23/2011 at 08:06 AM
Love this post! Ernie and Bert! Nice reference. That made me laugh!
The boys did play an excellent game. Reimer is amazing!
I will curse the other teams from now until Thursday. Hope the same Leafs show up then!
Posted by: Sue | 03/23/2011 at 08:11 AM
Yeah.It was a bitter sweet night for sure.Of course "The Spin" figures Reimer is another flash in the pan so this must so.
Also,if it meets with the approval of Hoofheartz,I would like to invite Nick Verbaeys,our friend from Belgium,to the Atlantic ALFB Conference.If Belgium is not "back east" what is? Leafs Nation is going more global all the time.Simple as that.
Posted by: TimB | 03/23/2011 at 08:20 AM
VM u magnificent blog writing bastard ! I agree...the most important thing is ALL signs are positive going forward. They still have a longshot which is way more of a shot then they had at this time last year, the pieces look like they are starting to come together to make a picture ! While i have ALWAYS cheered for the Leafs pre Burke i never thought they would go anywhere because i believe u NEED SOLID top management to win on the ice. The Burke hiring signaled a new era for the Leafs...one that is starting to take shape. I have NEVER seen the Leafs with so many great prospects to look forward to. Burke will not rest until we have a winner ! Just look at that Brenner signing. Both montreal and minny wanted him...Burke got him ! The more seeds u plant, the greater the chance some will grow and blossem !! As good as Reimer has been, given that 2nd year drought most goalies go through(for whatever reason), imho, Burke should go sign Brysgalov with some of that 25mil he has to spend. A tandem of Brysgalov/Reimer would be awesome ... what say u ?
Posted by: Jon | 03/23/2011 at 08:26 AM
Carey is NOT my boy this morning. I would never claim to admire him this morning. He sux this morning. He sux specially on purpose this morning.
I am not a dumb bunnie. I know what MY HABS did; and, I am sorry in behalf of my divided loyalties since I *am* channelling my Angelic Cussin' Grandpa who is saying much the same things ViM 'n' Vigour says in this post. Dammitol. And, WTFlip is up with the way they're mangling Pha9?
Pfft! Just keep chipping away, Leaf Nation. You got the rhythm and you got the momentum. Hotdammitall, though, Reimbo's got talent to spare. What a kid! What a game! Yay YOU; boo Carew :(. P-U! That game got threw :((((((((.
My friend, Butch, the Almaguin Highlands' biggest Leaf BeLeafer by a country smile? He was on the blower goin' Nyah, nyah . . . And, then I had to tell him the hard facts of life. Yeah, you won; but, so did the competition. (He don't understand stats; but, he can cut a two-by-four within an inch of your life licketty-splat, just like that.)
His reply? "We're still in it, ain't we?" Yep. S'all that matters, ain't it?
GO HABS GO!!1!™
Posted by: Judith Fitzgerald | 03/23/2011 at 08:27 AM
Fine game. Reimer strong on the break aways. Good to see.
Posted by: Robert | 03/23/2011 at 08:32 AM
As much as this team tried to lose in the first period, Reimer just wouldn't let it happen. That is exactly what we need in a goalie. Colorado's up next, and they have like, 2 wins in their last 20... so that should set up a big showdown on Saturday.
I hope the playoff situation gets settled soon. If we're not going to make it I'd like to see Aulie and Kadri sent down to help the Marlies make the playoffs.
Posted by: TPiddy | 03/23/2011 at 08:51 AM
Judith,I watched the end of the Habs game and it was a sad sight to behold.Complete lack of effort!
Posted by: TimB | 03/23/2011 at 08:54 AM
so much for the book being out on Reimer and his weak glove hand. the Wild had how many breakaway's last night??? and how many times did they try and go high glove side on him???
Posted by: Chad | 03/23/2011 at 08:58 AM
Well said again Vinay.
Somebody call Reimstoppers!!!
There has been a theft in the XCEL Energy Centre by a masked man! The Leafs earned the shutout last night. Top two lines on the scoreboard again is always a good sign. GO LEAFS GO!!!
Cheers to all in Leaf Nation!
Posted by: We BeLeaf | 03/23/2011 at 09:21 AM
Awesome column, VM, would not expect less. What a game for our boys in blue! Reimer should now get a little recognition for the Calder, but, sadly, not enough games played. My choice, but, I don't get a vote. Wow, those goals we got last night were beauties, laser beams in the top of the net. Amateur hour with that Fox Sport set of embarassing announcers, hey? The one guy called Reimer, Jason. When Lupul scored, they displayed on TV screen as Luput. Another claimed that Kulemin played 4 years with Notre Dame, hilarious. And don't get me started on the referees, that was called like a peewee game. Cheap, borderline penalties on both teams. Too bad we could not get any help from the scabs and hens. From my understanding, it was not a top notch effort from the scabs and Miller the leaf killer stood on his head when needed. As for the hens, they didn't even play Anderson, what's up with that? They sign him for 4 years at over 12 mill, then sit him? Something smelly in Ottawa, and not just the city. Now, we need the same effort on Thursday, not another Florida fiasco, you know what I mean, Mr. Ron Wilson. Lastly, sure hope Joe Bowen and his crew is back on Thursday, sure appreciate and respect the fine job they do even more after that Minnesota experiment.
Posted by: Michael C. Nemirsky | 03/23/2011 at 09:29 AM
Cox, as well as some posters here seem to think bringing in Bryzgalov would be a good idea in the off season.
Do you believe the Leafs are going to have any interest in Bryzgalov in the offseason given his history of not wanting to cooperate with Allaire?
Bringing Allaire here to develop our young goalies was a great move. But if Bryzgalov is still unwilling to work with Allaire, I could see it as becoming a big distraction.
Also with the end of the regular season soon upon us, any possibility of getting another lunch meeting with Burke in the near future? :)
VM Replies: Good morning, PK. Sorry for the delayed reply. I'm tied up this morning with non-Leafs work.
Re: Bryz, I've said this before but I'll say it again, stronger this time: Brian Burke has ZERO interest in him. None. He's not coming here. Period.
I honestly don't know where this rumour started, or why, but it's not happening and Burke has never considered it.
Posted by: PK | 03/23/2011 at 09:35 AM
Morning All, I am encouraged how this team is playing right now but I will not look to the future just yet.
The truth is we don't know what the future holds for this team. Anything can happen, is MacAurther having a career year, how about Grabovski or even Reimer. He would not be the first goalie to light it up at the beginning of his career only to fade away. Think rookie of the year Andrew Raycroft. I am not saying it will happen but Raycroft won rookie of the year for crying out loud.
Last year, according to Ostrish Lover's fantasy lover, Damien Cox pick the team to make the playoffs and they finished second last. This year Chris Versteeg was supposed to bring stanley cup energy to this line up and the same for Beauchemin, the rock.
So while we are forgiving the Leafs for falling short because their play has improved significantly and it will soften the blow when the inevitable comes, the fact is if they miss the playoffs the have failed again., and next year is for dreamers.
I will continue to hold them to account.
Simple as that
Posted by: Ken Baumgartner | 03/23/2011 at 09:54 AM
@Ken Baumgartner, I do respect your opinion, but, don't agree with your comparison of Reimer with Raycroft. James is as cool as a cucumber, whereas, Raycroft was and will always have the reputation as a nervous nellie. Also, Raycroft won rookie of the year, then the lockout occurred, if I'm not mistaken. The time off hurt Raycroft and JFJ made the ultimate mistake and kept Pogge instead of Rask. That trade still gives me nightmares and ruined JFJ. At least JFJ drafted Reimer!
Posted by: Michael C. Nemirsky | 03/23/2011 at 10:08 AM
Judith - come on! Price was awesome last night. The only reason it wasn't a 5-0 win for Buffalo was #31. He made about 6 highlight reel saves to keep the Habs in it - the guy can't be expected to score goals as well!
Nope the culprit last night in Montreal was the team's pop-gun offense. When the mighty-smurfs allow themselves to be kept to the outside the Canadiens lose - it's as simple as that. That's how Philly clobbered them in the playoffs last year, and that's the formula for beating them this year. When the mighty smurfs play with conviction and drive the night Montreal can play with anyone in the league. Last night wasn't such a night.
I respectfully disagree with Cox and others who think the Leafs should pick up Bryzgalov or some other veteran netminder. Go with two of the young guys - give them a shot and see what happens. Best case scenario: they grow with the team as it matures and they gain confidence. Worst case: they bomb and you go shopping for a goalie next summer instead - the team isn't going to be a contender next year regardless, so where's the risk?
Posted by: Geoff Read | 03/23/2011 at 10:14 AM
Oops... "drive the night" should read "drive the net" of course. Not enough sleep does that to you.
Posted by: Geoff Read | 03/23/2011 at 10:15 AM
Vinay makes me wanna cry ..... with joy!
and @Alecia .... makes me the happiest person in the world
Simple as that.
VM Replies: Alecia just left a comment and now it all makes sense. Welcome, Mr.Hinrichs.
Posted by: Mr.Hinrichs | 03/23/2011 at 10:24 AM
Good grief! Does it take a Habs fan to agree with me about Bryzgalov? As well as the importance of the amount of cowbell required in various circumstances?
Posted by: TimB | 03/23/2011 at 10:29 AM
Great article Vinay! Love the Leafs...go Blue & White!
Posted by: Leaf for Life | 03/23/2011 at 10:29 AM
Vin - Once again, you've found a way to put our feelings into the right words. Yes- it sucked that everyone else won, but you are right... This is no longer a rearranging of the deck chairs on the Titanic. I absolutely do not believe this finish is the same as the last few years, but I will not get "Next Year" on the back of my Leaf sweater, because it will be a waste.
I'm going with "Saganiuk"
Thanks for keeping me half sane.
Posted by: Billy | 03/23/2011 at 10:32 AM
VM:Sorry about the Habs not helping out the Leafs last night. But when you're missing 9 regulars,playing the Buffalo Sabres is apparently a different kettle of fish than playing the Minnesota Wild.
Posted by: Phil | 03/23/2011 at 10:33 AM
@Mr.Hinrichs. I love the Leafs and I love love.You should have comment of the day.Simple as that!
Posted by: TimB | 03/23/2011 at 10:35 AM
The leafs can only blame themselves for the outcome of this season... simple as that :D i must say, its catchy. May just have to start using it more often....
Posted by: KWood19 | 03/23/2011 at 10:43 AM
Once again, you have stolen thoughts directly from my brain and used them in your blog. Perhaps I should start charging you. It was at exactly the same point in the broadcast last night (during Tex Boil's version of "Kashmir") that I stopped cringing long enough to wonder why people are so critical of the atmosphere at the ACC. The only time those "Wild" fans made any noise was when they booed the "Go Leafs Go" choruses. And I thought Minnesota was supposed to be Hockeystate. Ha.
.
I believe those play by play announcers are from Brainerd. Fanoof should be pronounced that way from now on.
.
Matt Lashoff does not look out of place.
Posted by: Leaf Fan in Lotusland | 03/23/2011 at 10:43 AM
With Monster, Rynnas AND Scrivens all coming here for a shot to be a #1 NHL goaltender, I don't think it's fair to them for Burke to go out and grab another guy. Burke's focus this off-season should be a center, followed by fixing the power play.
Posted by: TPiddy | 03/23/2011 at 10:50 AM
I don't honestly know if Reimer is the most talented goalie that we have. I'm not saying he's not talented, but in the off-season teams are going to pore over his videos and they might be able to poke a few holes. And we've got quite a few talented goalies in the system. But I will say this about him, I love him. He's just so cool, and such a great character. If he were on my team I would play harder just to keep him smiling. And I know when he says he had a bad game, he really meant it, and he's going to make up for it next game. Reimer is young but he's got a special mixture of young-man enthusiasm mixed with old-timer maturity. I just love the guy and it makes me happy when he wins.
Posted by: Simon | 03/23/2011 at 10:56 AM
@Mike, It is not exactly the same you are right, but that is but one example. Jose Theodore won an MVP and has never been the same. I remember Partick Lalime starting his career off with the penguins as a future hall of famer and what happened? Well as a leaf fan I loved his game when he was in Ottawa.
I am just saying that forecasting next year is a fool's game to be sure. There are many times the Leafs almost made it only to fall back the next year.
Everything that is going on right now I would love to continue next year, don't get me wrong. The one thing that I am willing to submit acceptance to is that this is a different team that started the year, not because they have come together but because management made some wholesale changes. So in a way the team that Brian Burke held expectations on at the beginning of the year was actually held accountable and players were shipped out. I like that, but I still want the playoffs this year.
I know I know, it is remote but as good as experience they are getting right now because the games are meaningful, Imagine the experience if they make it and get to play in the playoffs also. This team needs to step up again next game.
I am I being a bit hard on them, so what, they get paid to win and I am just a stinking fan who wants to invest his heart in some post season play for change. .
Simple as that.
Posted by: Ken Baumgartner | 03/23/2011 at 11:04 AM
@ TimB. Yes, please. More cowbell.
Posted by: Billy | 03/23/2011 at 11:13 AM
TPiddy, While agree that a #1 center is top priority, I disagree that because it is the NHL, fair is not in the equation. What gives my team the best chance to win, that is what really matters. Competition inside the team is a good thing.
Posted by: Ken Baumgartner | 03/23/2011 at 11:14 AM
Leafs = Awesome
Simple as that
Posted by: A True Leafs Fan | 03/23/2011 at 11:15 AM
Tim B - you and I are clearly completely sympatico when it comes to the almost existential need for more cowbell.
Posted by: Geoff Read | 03/23/2011 at 11:31 AM
I can't help feeling if we can get within two or three points before we beat the Sabres Tuesday, we have a chance. All we need is two more wins. Just Colorado and those pesky Detroit Red Wings. All we need is for Buffalo to lose in OT to Florida and to New Jersey in regulation. It could happen. Then we'll see how they respond to the pressure.
Posted by: moe green | 03/23/2011 at 11:38 AM
VM - do you have anything from me hiding in your spam filter? I posted a response to TimB about our Belgium compatriate a while ago but I don't see it.
VM Replies: Good timing, hoof! I just finished my work and am returning full attention to the Leafers.
Let me check... Stand by.
No, sir. There is nothing from you in spam filter. Just a startling number of links to websites that promise to enhance a certain part of my anatomy.
Posted by: hoofheartz | 03/23/2011 at 12:15 PM
Last year, the Capitals had a veteran goalie to provide some security given the lack of experience of their two very young goalies, Varlamov and Neuvirth. Well, we all know how that ended. Old Jose Threeormore was by far the weakest link in the chain and is now being his own porous self in Minnesota. Given the fact that the Leafs have several goalies behind Reimer in the system, I think they should use next year to check them out by giving them a chance to play in the big league. Yes, the club should comfortably make the playoffs next year but we cannot expect them to challenge for the Cup yet. If Reimer suffers the sophomore shakes and Gus ea cannot carry the load, there is always time to find a veteran goalie somewhere. At this point, the priority should be to improve the powerplay. That is where the biggest need is.
Posted by: pinot grigio | 03/23/2011 at 12:24 PM
VM, I could not do it. I just could not cheer for the aging Habs, whose kick at the can, with this injury-prone team, will quickly be ended early in the post-season. Hopefully, no other team will prevent a Montreal-Boston first round, beat down match up. I could also not cheer for the Sens, whose rebuilding but still older defence core will keep them as non-factors for years to come.
The young Leafs continue to impress. I was extremely happy to see that our defencemen playing tough around the crease and protecting Reimer. Aulie, Luke and the Captain were making Wild players pay a price for getting near our goalie. I know Aulie got a penalty for doing so but I think it sends the right message that you enter that zone at your own risk. It is not something I have seen from a Leaf team in a long time. Hopefully the Buds will keep rockin' and fate and destiny will take care of the rest.
GO LEAFS GO!
Posted by: Rooney | 03/23/2011 at 12:25 PM
VM: Anything in your spam folder about a "red wing game"?!?!?
VM Replies: Yes. I'm going to send you an email momentarily.
Posted by: gettingcozywithsarkozy | 03/23/2011 at 12:34 PM
Vinay, do not click on those links. Trust me, nobody needs their ears enlarged.
VM Replies: Front-runner for Comment of The Day.
Posted by: Wandering Penguin | 03/23/2011 at 12:56 PM
@ Rooney,
I understand where you're coming from and agree with you. Unfortunately even if the Leafs run the table from here on in, they would still need help from the other teams in the conference. It just makes it that much more difficult to achieve the post-season when you can't control your own destiny.
I was watching an old Leafs game a few days ago on ESPN Classic where they were playing the Sens during the 02/03 season celebrating Roger Neilson's 1000th game as coach and your comment of the Leafs D-Men such as Aulie and Schenn clearing the crease and sending a message to opposing players is exactly what players like Cory Cross and McCabe did during those years.
Posted by: We BeLeaf | 03/23/2011 at 01:12 PM
Glad to hear the Bryz rumour got shot down. I'd prefer to see the leafs stick with their young goalies, even if they aren't quite as proven.
Great entry as usual Vinay!
VM Replies: Thank you, jt.
Posted by: jt | 03/23/2011 at 01:19 PM
Leafs' fans,
Here's the math. If the Leafs' win all of their final 8 games, they will finish with 92 points. Even in that best-case scenario, if the Sabres win 6 of their final 9 games, they'll finish with 93 points. And that doesn't account for the Hurricanes who also have a leg up on Toronto.
So if the fat lady ain't singin', she's definitely doing some vocal exercises to warm up for her appearance.
I'm not trying to be cruel - I just calculated it this way and thought it was a better way of looking at the playoff race than thinking "they're only 5 points back", which is what you usually get from the media (which has a vested interest in keeping fans tuned in to the "playoff race").
VM Replies: Down with the evil media.
Posted by: Geoff Read | 03/23/2011 at 01:39 PM
To be fair, there is a similar unreality in the Montreal sports market where they talk about Montreal catching the Bruins - that's not going to happen either. The math just doesn't add up.
Posted by: Geoff Read | 03/23/2011 at 01:46 PM
Heard this on the radio this week, and now the Star has an article covering it...
http://www.thestar.com/sports/hockey/nhl/mapleleafs/article/959168--want-to-own-the-leafs-for-1-000-there-s-a-catch.
So who's in?
Posted by: We BeLeaf | 03/23/2011 at 01:49 PM
I hear ya @We BeLeaf. But as I have been saying since the New Year, no team in the East seems unbeatable, even the Devils seem to have hit a wall. The Rangers seem to be raising their game to the next level now but the Devils, Islanders and Leafs seem to be the better teams in 2011. Although stats, time and opportunity is definitely working against the Leafs, I am not convinced that the Sabres or Canes are suddenly going to change their inconsistent play and run the table. If either of those teams can win all of their games, than Ward or Miller probably have earned their shot at the Cup. Until it is official, this thing is still on. GO LEAFS GO!
Posted by: Rooney | 03/23/2011 at 01:57 PM
VM - I think "death to the evil media" has a nicer ring.
Just kidding... or am I??? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bDmb4YQqizQ
Posted by: Geoff Read | 03/23/2011 at 02:10 PM
Geoff, 6 out of 9 for the Sabres? A .667 winning percentage? That would be impressive. Wins over Florida and Columbus seems possible. I am not sure about wins against the Devils, Rangers and Canes (all second night games on back to back nights). Also doubts about wins against the Flyers, Tampa and Captials (all fighting for positions or home ice, not to mention they are better teams). Throw in a good a$$ whooping from the Leafs on the 29th and never say never.
GO LEAFS GO!
Posted by: Rooney | 03/23/2011 at 02:48 PM
Well, normally Carey *is* my go-to goalie boy because he possesses the skill and talent to stop an avalanche when necessary. I can, however, only worship at the Awesome Altar of one young goalie at a time. Tunnel vision or sumpin' . . . Ain't a crime when it comes to Optimus Reim time (said the poet).
Did not see game since no TV (as you may have heard); but, I heared CP give his all despite the mass of missing Smurfs as well as the lack-lustrous play in front of him, specially the D. They oughtta mail those games to the soon-to-be-uncovered or rediscovered Atlantis or sumpin'.
Okay. This is the only blog where one will discover "existential cowbell" and nod sagely (rather than look around for the nearest exit, that is). What went wrong with this pic? Honky-Tank Woman? LOL.
Listen, don't get ahead of yerselfs! This ViM blogpost really shiny neato, another writerly beaut? Tick. This win an excruciatingly important but ultimately static one? Tick. MY HABS falling apart post-season? Nix that noise, Grrls 'n' Boys :). We shall C, we shall C . . .
GO HABS GO!!1!™
VM Replies: Judith, I am so tempted to change your sign-off to, "GO LEAFS GO!!1!™
You know you're half way there. Come closer. Come toward the light.
Posted by: Judith Fitzgerald | 03/23/2011 at 03:05 PM
Vinay & Boo, meet Mr.Hinrichs, the one you two can’t stop talking about. He makes life good again when the Leafs lose.
VM Replies: What??? Oh man, I was on deadline and didn't get a chance to formally welcome Mr.Hinrichs.
Good sir, welcome!
Posted by: Alecia | 03/23/2011 at 03:48 PM
Awww crap, I broke my own rule.
GO LEAFS GO!
or is it
GO LEAFS GO!!1!™
Posted by: Alecia | 03/23/2011 at 03:54 PM
@Michael: I think what Bomber is saying is that there are no sure things in sports. Next year could bring injuries, drop-offs or offensive explosions. MacArthur could be back to the pack. He has tailed off a bit. Grabovski or Kulemin or even Kessel could have an off or injury plagued year. Reimer could have a setback. He could also win the Vezina.
IMO this was a playoff team this year. I don't know why they didn't blossom. Lack of chemistry, poor coaching, some GM-ing mistakes - Versteeg? But the team had the talent to be there. For me and others though the future has positives, if they miss the playoffs this season will be another failure.
Hope for next year? Of course, there always is. But next year could be a bust as well. The Islanders, Thrashers or Canes and Devils could provide fresh obstacles. If I am honest though I do have to say that I feel a little better heading into next year just because the organization has some legitimate depth for the first time in recent memory.
A shaky goaltending situation (as Damien points out) or the inability to find a legitimate first line centre could make next year even more painful than this one. Me I haven't given up on this season just yet.
Posted by: moe green | 03/23/2011 at 04:12 PM
@Geoff: The math, as you say, is definitely not in the Leafs favour. So the Leafs beating the Sabres is a given. So now your scenario requires them winning 6 of 8. Not as easy. What if they lose to the Canes? 6 of 7. Oh oh. And remember - we are the Toronto Maple Leafs not mere Sabres or Canadians. That'll screw your math up right there.
Posted by: moe green | 03/23/2011 at 04:21 PM
Well Moe,math was never my strong suit.
GO LEAFS GO!!!
Posted by: TimB | 03/23/2011 at 04:26 PM
Someone rear-ended me this morning as I waited at a red light on my way to school. Since a beautiful Habs flag flies from my rear car window, the theory --voiced last night by VM--about my underwear being responsible for the Leafs inability fo make the playoffs seems to have made me a target...or paranoid...or both.
VM Replies: That's horrible. Hope you're okay.
It may be time to consider changing your car flag. And possibly your undergarments.
Posted by: Princess Mononoke | 03/23/2011 at 04:40 PM
@ TimB and Moe Green
Hey Moe Green,
You were right. I'm a Belgian, not a Canadian. I got infected by the Blue and White fever, when I studied for 9 months in Toronto 7 years ago. Since then I'm a huge fan.
Great post again.
Nick
VM Replies: Where in Belgium do you live, Nick? I've only been to Oostende and Brussels but have always wanted to do a proper tour.
Posted by: Nick Verbaeys | 03/23/2011 at 04:40 PM
@Nick Verbaeys. I have never been to your country,but enjoy your waffles very much.
Posted by: TimB | 03/23/2011 at 05:28 PM
For all you statistics nuts, there is a book you should read. It is written by Charles Seife and titled "Proofiness, the Dark Arts of Mathematical Deception". Seife shows how people that want to be believed add some statistics to their argument and thereby hope to bowl over their audience. Proofiness, in other words, is what leads to Truthiness.
Don't believe every statistic you see; it is a well-known fact that paper does not refuse ink and you can prove everything and anything with some well chosen figures. Personally, I believe in the magical properties of ill-chosen undies as a much more potent predictor of what is about to happen than some silly statistics. Did you know it can be proven statistically that ducks can't fly? It's a fact, and yet, see them soar.
Same thing for the Leafs, dudes, see them soar!
Posted by: pinot grigio | 03/23/2011 at 05:33 PM
Princess,
I hope you're 100%! I've no doubt some dastardly Leaf fan, his knuckles dragging on the ground, deliberately rammed your vehicle out of sheer malice.
For shame, Leafs' nation, for shame.
PS - Judith: in my humble opinion, Honky Tonk Women is the greatest cowbell song of them all.
VM Replies: Please! Leaf fans are exceedingly tolerant. I remember once walking down Rue Sainte-Catherine in my blue-and-white jersey.
I felt more threatened than the time I accidentally got lost in downtown LA.
Posted by: Geoff Read | 03/23/2011 at 05:58 PM
@Princess - I have an extra TML flag for your car when it's out of the shop! C'mon sista, I'll even deliver it as I'm in Hazelville as well
GO LEAFS GO!!!
Posted by: LaineyTML12 | 03/23/2011 at 06:10 PM
OK, so my earlier post didn't get through to TimB so here we go again. Tim, I think it's a great idea to have as many "Easterners" attend the first annual Maritime ALFB conference which of course includes anyone from across the big pond. Even stinking hab fans are invited. As a matter of fact almost everyone is invited.
Disclaimer - this post was typed using my own 2 cloven hooves and no tears were shed so everything should be typed properly.
Posted by: hoofheartz | 03/23/2011 at 06:17 PM
@pinot grigio 'see them soar' exactly.
I read Damien Cox's article today. This guy is an egotistical nay sayer. Always has been. Quotes cases that are twenty years old and nothing new.
Reimer is a LEAF. There are more goal tenders in the fold. In BB, we have finally found someone who apparently knows talent and goes after it.
We know that some of these guys will remain American leaguers, and some will make the big club. There will by ups and downs, but I suspect not so many anymore.
We shall overcome. Maybe not this season, and that sucks. But, we have the colts and WE SHALL OVERCOME!
Posted by: Robert | 03/23/2011 at 06:46 PM
OOOOPs forgot, 'Simple as that'. I think I used this a couple of days ago in a reply to someone's post response. Could have been OL's.
I first heard it from a Newfoundlander who came over to Halifax to work with us.
It really does break down a lot of nonsense.
Posted by: Robert | 03/23/2011 at 06:49 PM
Re: Geoff "knuckles dragging on the ground, deliberately rammed your vehicle out of sheer malice."
....Leaf fans must have some special skills to be able to steer straight into Princess while they're knuckles are actually outside the vehicle dragging on the ground.
Posted by: gettingcozywithsarkozy | 03/23/2011 at 06:50 PM
@VM: I am ok, but both my kids were in the back seat when we were smashed into and believe me, I was so freaked out by the sudden smash right near them that I almost *did* have to change my undergarments afterwards...(I know, I know, that's not what you meant, but no truer words were ever spoken).
VM Replies: That is really scary. I'm glad everybody is okay. Okay, maybe it's best if I stop mentioning your unmentionables.
Posted by: Princess Mononoke | 03/23/2011 at 07:41 PM
Sarko,
Not special skills, just long simian arms.
Anyway Sarko, 'fess up - why did you ram Princess' car?
Posted by: Geoff Read | 03/23/2011 at 07:50 PM
TimB posted: "I have never been to your country,but enjoy your waffles very much" and nobody had the decency to perform a rimshot? For shame. Ba-dum-CRASH. There ya go. My favourite comment of the day so far.
GO LEAFS GO!!!
(FINALLY remembered.)
Posted by: Wandering Penguin | 03/23/2011 at 07:50 PM
Speaking of waffles, is it just me or is he on sabatical?
@Princess glad to here you are alright and so is your little ALF B bloggers. I would suggest a trip to the mall and replace those undergarments with some Maple Leaf fancies and some new Maple Leafs PJ's for the kids, just to take your mind off of things.
Posted by: Ken Baumgartner | 03/23/2011 at 08:31 PM
Vinay The Bryz coming to Toronto rumour started some time ago in this paper with a blog by Damien. He mentioned nothing about the apparent loathing between Bryzgalov and Allaire. Don't know why he did not.
And I think I read about that somewhere else too. If you say he ain't coming to Toronto than so be it. I am torn about it. Would love to see Reimer start next year, and see how Gustavsson, Rynnas or Scrivens do as backups growing with our young team. BUT would also love to see an established veteran in nets for us too. Sigh. What to do? It would appear we are going to go into next year with our goalkeeping situation unclear. But we will see what Burke & Co. do this summer on the free agent market. Vokoun was mentioned.
Great game going on right now between two Cup contenders: Detroit and Vancouver. 0-0 in the second.
Hoof I am about as far East as one gets. Don't I get an invite? Just joking.
GO LEAFS GO!
VM Replies: PP, all I know is Burke has no interest in Bryz.
Posted by: Pyramid Power | 03/23/2011 at 08:37 PM
Another note on Bryzgalov. We had a chance to get him in a Toronto uni a few years back before he went to Phoenix.
Forget the circumstances, but I think Tippets and Phoenix grabbed him off waivers from Anaheim. We could have done so but did not. At least that is how I remember that going.
Can anyone confirm my wretched memory of this? Or confirm that I simply have a wretched memory which is more likely the case?
Posted by: Pyramid Power | 03/23/2011 at 08:45 PM
What an excellent and entertaining game in Detroit with Vancouver holding on for a 2-1 win.
Doing a little advance scouting for us ahead of Saturday's tilt against the Wings. I can only say one thing: I hope they take us lightly. Please Detroit.
Such a superb hockey team with so many areas of strength. No real weaknesses on that team unless you think Howard in nets is a weakness.
I am going to assume, and that is very dangerous, that we will beat Denver tomorrow night. What happens Sat. nite in Motown is another story.
Lidstrom, Helm, Hudler, Zetterberg, Holmstrom and on and on and on. Going to be a tall order to beat them especially since they are now winless in their past three games which can't make them very happy.
GO LEAFS GO!
Posted by: Pyramid Power | 03/23/2011 at 10:11 PM
Brenner popped two goals tonight in his pro debut. Nice.
Posted by: Wandering Penguin | 03/23/2011 at 10:13 PM
Hey VM, went through the blog and just fond a hint of cynicism in it.
Its true that yesterday's win didn't help us make ground on teams above us, but Hey! Isn't this far better than the "moral victories" we had in November & December. Weren't we tired of days when the team supposedly outworked the opposition and yet ended up on the wrong side on the scoresheet?
I think LeafsNation has moved to the next level up, where a win is 2 points, and not just moral victory. Soon, days will come when even these 2 points would mean something in standings.
Team is loving playing in front of Reimer, and it shows. When was the last time this team had 2-game winning streak (all running still) against Tim Thomas, Ryan Miller & Cam Ward? Usually, we'd run into a hot goalie against these oppositions, but its been noticeable lately that we haven't run into one of them because on those nights, the hot goalie holds fort in Leafs net!
I BE-LEAF!
VM Replies: No cynicism intended. You're right on all points.
Posted by: Deepak | 03/23/2011 at 11:56 PM
@PP 02
.
"@Hensibill I always thought you were a punk. Now I know you are. 'Peeramid Poower?' How old are you? What ARE you doing on this blog? RepreHENsibill behaviour.
As usual, you are dismissed with not one iota of respect.
I'd like to meet you in person, and wipe those little wicked grins and :g's right off your sourpuss, but anyway enough words and energy have been expended on the likes of you."
.
A punk? Yeah, as everyone knows, I'm still wet behind the ears, with no experience or knowledge. Of course the odd thing about being so young is that unlike so many here --- including yourself? --- I happen to have witnessed not one, but FOUR Stanley Cup wins by the Toronto Maple Leafs.
.
As for "Pee-ramid Poo-wer" that's just a touch of sarcasm, seeing as I wasn't the one who started the childish and petty misspelling of names. It was also meant to underline how the Sens were always the Hens to you, until you wanted --- but ended up demanding --- a favour, at which point you rather hypocritically switched to calling them the Sens.
.
As for what I am doing here on this blog, I think I have explained and discussed my presence here plenty of times already. And since you, in your almightiness, don't have one iota of respect for me, why should I waste my breath explaining such things to you?
.
You've made it clear you don't want me here no matter what. And my response remains the same --- that's YOU'RE problem, deal with it.
.
"I'd like to meet you in person, and wipe those little wicked grins and :g's right off your sourpuss"
.
Wow. Am I supposed to be intimidated by your display of big-man truculence? Perhaps your wish to resort to violence says something about you? I don't recall others here wanting to punch out me --- or anyone else here.
.
If I WAS a young punk, I'd welcome a chance to retaliate physically and put you in your place that way. But being of the tender young age of 63, and thus much wiser, I'd merely let you take your best shot, then have you arrested for assault and sue the hell out of you. LOL
.
And to think I once had such high regard for you and even openly missed you when you couldn't post here. Well, true colours will out I suppose, and if your arrogance and lack of respect has altered my opinion of you, then YOUR punkish response has certainly solidified this new, far-from-favourable opinion.
.
I know Vinay doesn't like confrontation between posters and doesn't like name calling either. (Though I would think that in this case, in regard to the latter, you started it.) (wg)
.
Now I am aware and realistic enough to realize that in the court of Leaf Nation I automatically lose because I cheer for another team --- though I don't understand how it is such a noble thing to cheer for and be loyal to the Leafs but being the very same to any other team, including one's own home team, is somehow such a despicable crime.
.
The second factor I am well aware of is . . . now how do I say this semi-politely? Let's just say it's obvious that in even this small, often reasonable corner of Leaf Nation, you can be the biggest burro burrow [equus asinus orifice] you want and everyone has to support you no matter what because you've got the free pass of being a Leaf fan.
.
(Frankly I still don't understand the seeming adherence to the Leafs Fans Can Do No Wrong rule by people who otherwise seem fair and reasonable.)
.
Of course some will also support you because you seem like a nice enough guy most of the time and/or the person you are denigrating and mocking doesn't really count because he's not a Leaf fan to begin with.
.
But for me, I may be just a punk kid in your eyes (LOL) but when push comes to shove --- or wishful thinking about a punch in the face --- I will always stand up for myself.
.
Now put that in your aperture and smoke it! LOL
VM Replies: Oh, man. My whistle is up near my mouth. Getting ready to stop the play... want to let the play keep going... but... must stop the play.
Sensi-Bill, as stated before, you are always welcome here. PP, as stated before, you are one of the original members of the ALF B Commentariat.
If you did meet in real life, my guess is you'd end up talking hockey and possibly even go for a beer as opposed to beating the daylights out of each other.
So I'm going to blame all of this on the stress of the season and gently suggest you shake hands and forget about it.
Posted by: Sensi-Bill | 03/24/2011 at 06:10 AM
Forgotten awhile ago. But now rekindled. Glad to see I could get under your skin Bill. My unmitigated pleasure.
I will treat Sensitive Bill as John Ferguson Sr. would treat his opponents: with disrespect and indifference and usually much more than that. You started it Bill with the 'Peeramid Poower' comment remember? Anyway. Please do not address any comments towards me anymore is all I ask. I will not be addressing anything further towards you, and will be ignoring your posts as I usually do.
Oh,calling the Hens amuses me. It apparently amuses quite a few other posters here too. You are quite a petty little man aren't you Bill? Take care and good luck to you. No more please. This ends now. I will not be replying to anything you write in reply to this so don't waste your time.
GO LEAFS GO!
VM Replies: Is this a handshake and invitation for beer? I think so!
Posted by: Pyramid Power | 03/24/2011 at 08:17 AM
Love it Vinay. Too funny.
'Yeah, next time Bill is over in Shanghai I will happily buy him a brew or ten, and we can talk hockey and enjoy a 'great' time together.
I know I certainly won't be in Ottawa ever again.
I dislike that city almost as much as I dislike the Hens.
Glad to read Harper might be hittin' the road. The only thing I like about Harper is that he likes hockey.
Posted by: Pyramid Power | 03/24/2011 at 08:38 AM
Top of the morning to you, Vinay!
Hmm. ... My take on the 8:17 post!
More like an impending lemon square 'dawn dual' at three paces.
Very messy situation. Who's their seconds?
VM Replies: Hearty post-dawn salutations to you, maxwelledison. What do I shout before the baked goods are airborne? It is "draw" or "glaze"?
Posted by: maxwelledison | 03/24/2011 at 08:58 AM
For just a moment or two this morning I had a terrible feeling that I had somehow found my way back to the PPP blog. But then I skipped past the comment that scrolled off my screen - TWICE - and got to the level-headed moderator and realized I was still in Kansas. Thank goodness.
I'm just gonna say I'm mighty thankful I haven't called them the "Senaturds" yet as I do when I'm hanging with my transplanted Ottawanian buddy. (wg)
GO LEAFS GO!!!! New blog day! Yay! I don't know if I'm happier that there's a game on tonight or a new masterpiece is imminent!
VM Replies: Good morning, Mr. Penguin. Yes, please, do not use "Senaturds" until the temperature drops a bit in Kansas and the tornado warning is lifted.
Posted by: Wandering Penguin | 03/24/2011 at 09:04 AM
“Why can’t we all just get along?”
Posted by: TimB | 03/24/2011 at 09:17 AM
While I would like to thank Wandering Penguin for the rimshot yesterday,I hope he realizes this will only encourage me.
VM Replies: Good morning, TimB. Rimshot, cowbell, lemon square recipe guardian, vodka supplier, van driver, peacemaker, guitar solo enthusiast.
You'll have to email me your mailing address so I can send you a significant cheque when the season ends.
Posted by: TimB | 03/24/2011 at 09:20 AM
Oh, I won't, Vinay. ;)
It was supposed to be satirical - I meant to say that those kinds of names are rampant and I use quite a lot of them when I am talking about a rival: Fooladelphia Failers, Barfalo Sabres, Montroll Can'tadiens, Bostoned Boo-ins, the list goes on and on and clearly, some are a stretch at best. No matter how old I get, apparently I'm still 3 when it comes to nicknames.
And my friends who follow different teams? They use all the usual derogatory terms for the Leafs. They're just words, after all, and not even very cleverly thought out. I can be as guilty as anyone else of having a short fuse when mocked, but I think it's important to stop and consider which enemy foxhole you have wandered into before reacting.
Just my two cents' worth. I'm going to switch gears to the beautiful day here in Leafland.
Posted by: Wandering Penguin | 03/24/2011 at 09:27 AM
A lemon square dawn duel. Love it Maxwell. Nice.
I now remember why Hensibill dislikes me so much: long long ago when this blog started Hensibill once posted about 10 or 15 late night posts. All night long. Made it clear he was a Hens fan.
The next morning I made a couple of cracks about him probably being a Rottawa bureaubrat wasting taxpayer dollars to post on a Leafs fan blog all night.
Or maybe working the night shift as a security guard guarding our national secrets, and finding a computer to use to post here. Something along those lines. Don't think Hensibill and I have ever gotten along since.
God love ya Bill because nobody else does. JUST jesting. That was a line me dear Mom used to use all the time so I thought I would bust it out for ya.
Anyway, back to hockey and important things.
Law of the jungle applies tonight in Boston.
A Canadien must go after Chara tonight much like last year when Thornton went after Cooke after Cooke basically ended Savard's career.
Wonder which Canadien will have the guts to step up to Big Zdeno? Don't envy him.
I'm betting Mara will. Maybe Gill but Chara has demolished Hal in the past so maybe not.
Should be an interesting prelude to the main event which is Toronto at Denver.
GO LEAFS GO!
Posted by: Pyramid Power | 03/24/2011 at 09:30 AM
@TimB - I most certainly do. :D
Posted by: Wandering Penguin | 03/24/2011 at 09:32 AM
Good Morning VM,
No lemon squares on the menu tonight - won't be needed.
Will be making black pepper pasta as Col. will be peppered with shots and our Boys in Blue are gonna bring some spice to this game.
Leafs 4-2
GO YOU MAGNIFICENT LEAF BASTARDS GO!
VM Replies: Good morning, missideb. Black pepper pasta sounds delicious and subversive, as if you should be eating it through the mouthhole of a balaclava.
And thanks for the day's first prediction. Ever since Alecia fell madly in love, all psychic activity has been drastically reduced.
Posted by: missideb | 03/24/2011 at 09:48 AM
VM,your money is no good here.I do it for my love of Leafs Nation.
GO LEAFS GO!!!
VM Replies: You are a prince. This works out nicely since I am a pauper.
Posted by: TimB | 03/24/2011 at 09:58 AM
Pyramid and others,
I don't think the idea of going after Chara makes much sense for reasons I've stated before. But if someone's going to do it it will be either Mara or Travis Moen. I think more likely you can expect every Canadien who has an edge to his game to play a little harder on Chara tonight than usual. I expect Andrei Kostitsyn, for example, whose physical game is underrated, to take a run or two at him.
I offer the following clip as an example of a) why I don't understand why people say Chara is supposedly such a clean player - watch him try to decapitate Kovalev with an elbow and b) what, unfortunately, tends to happen to people, in this case Guillaume Latendresse, who try to exact a little frontier justice from him when he does these things. Chara's oft-celebrated "restraint" when fighting smaller opponents is notably absent here as he pummels Latendresse several times in the face when the former Hab is bent over, prone, and defenseless.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4_johidZhU&feature=related
The best thing the Canadiens can do tonight is to beat the Bruins in their own building. That will run their season record against Boston to 5-1 and send a pretty strong message going into the playoffs.
Posted by: Geoff Read | 03/24/2011 at 10:03 AM
@WP Senaturds. I would have used that a long time ago, but this is not PPP thank goodness, and it does not have the same comic ring as the Hens. I think Hens is funny compared to plenty of posters here including moi calling the Canadiens the Scabs or the Hags etc... as much as they richly deserve it.
Anyway. Let's make like Rodney King indeed Tim B. This silliness is over. We have hockey business to attend to.
Posted by: Pyramid Power | 03/24/2011 at 10:04 AM
C'mon VM - you work for the Star. Pauper indeed!! You must be fabulously weal... oh yeah , but you're married. I see what you mean.
VM Replies: Nobody gets into the newspaper business for the money, palbo. The sex and drugs, sure. But not the money.
Posted by: palbo | 03/24/2011 at 10:08 AM
hows this for a prediction? leafs score at 13 minutes left in the first by a beautiful cross crease pass to one of our 3rd or 4th liners then colorado will tie it up with 2 minutes left in the first by a chinsy deflection. bozak will then feed kessel who will feed it back to boazk who will roof it with 10 minutes left in the second.. two and a half minutes later somebody on the grabokulicarthur line will go end to end like luke schenn did 2 games ago and score. then mike brown will plot one in with 3 minutes left in the third with a shot that the goalie should have saved but didn't... simple as that.
VM Replies: Wow. This is incredibly specific, True Leafs Fan. It almost reads like a fever dream.
If you're right, I'm going to start a new religion in which you're the deity.
Posted by: A True Leafs Fan | 03/24/2011 at 10:08 AM
Great big shout out to our Toronto Marlies, this morning. Great game last night, boys. Welcome to Toronto, Tyler Brenner. 2 goals in your first pro game, atta boy, keep 'em coming. Big props to Scrivens, 41 saves, gets the big win. So exciting to see both Leafs and Marlies in the race. Our Boys in Blue are coming for you!
GO LEAFS GO!
GO MARLIES GO!
Posted by: missideb | 03/24/2011 at 10:08 AM
@missideb Thank you for the update, and yes, that is great news about Brenner. Great start for the lad.
@Geoff Can't access YouTube over here, but wish I could. I think Chara mostly plays a clean game. That seems to the be the prevalent opinion out there after the Pacioretty hit, and I would go along with that having watched lots of Bruins games over the years since Chara arrived in Beantown.
Recchi sure did stir the pot with his comments about the Canadiens embellishing the extent of Pacioretty''s wounds so Chara would hopefully get a long suspension.
Nice to see that did not work if in fact that is what they did. For the record, I think they did but you know I do not exactly like your team to say the absolute least.
Here's hoping Chara beats the daylights out of whatever man steps up for his beating, and the Bruins demolish the Canadiens ce soir. I expect both to happen, and will be very disappointed if these two wonderful things do not happen.
Posted by: Pyramid Power | 03/24/2011 at 10:26 AM
Pyramid - I'm not taking the bait today. I expect: no one will fight Chara because they think it's pointless; the Canadiens will win by using their team speed, as they have done four out of five times this season.
Posted by: Geoff Read | 03/24/2011 at 10:30 AM
Advantage?
In tonight's game, it's a "must win" for Montreal if they want to stand a chance of taking the Division lead. Much more importantly, it's an "advantage" for the Leafs if the the Bruins lose. It's a "must lose" for Boston if you are a Leaf fan.
The lower in the standings and early departure in the playoffs would make an improved position for Burke in the first round draft selection.
Guess ya' hafta' decide if you love the Buds more than hate the Habs.
Posted by: leafland'r | 03/24/2011 at 10:39 AM
For the record, I don't actually think Chara plays a dirty game as a rule. But he does have a history of dirty, high hits especially when his team is losing. The NHL, as it has always done with star players, has treated him very generously in not suspending him for these past infractions, and then points to the fact that he hasn't been suspended as evidence that he has no record of dirty plays. The logic is circular. "We didn't suspend you before, therefore we won't suspend you now, and the next time you do something, you'll still have a clean record so we won't suspend you then either." I would suggest that, in fact, Chara has deserved to be suspended multiple times during his career but has gotten off Scot-free. For Leafs' fans' edification I would suggest, for example that his two crosschecks to the back of Mikhail Grabovski earlier this season should've at least been reviewed by the league. They weren't, because, as we all know, good old Zdeno is such a nice guy and clean player.
Posted by: Geoff Read | 03/24/2011 at 10:45 AM
5-1 LEAFS!
VM Replies: Duly noted.
Posted by: Alecia | 03/24/2011 at 11:04 AM
Geoff That is very Rodney 'Kingish' of you and I respect that you don't feel like fishin' today.
If no one on the Canadiens steps up to fight Chara it will be because of pure fear, and because the Canadiens are mostly dirty gutless bastards. Nine missing regulars for a reason: this team and its mostly boorish fanbase bring out the loathing in other teams.
Did you see Puck Daddy's blog the other day culled from a major magazine saying the Canadiens and their fans are the most hated hockey team by far in the NHL?
Yes, the Canadiens have had some success against Boston this year, and that is mostly why they still have a sliver of hope of taking the division.
Don't expect them to win tonight in Boston though. Book it. And book a Leafs win in Denver.
Bruins played very well in their last game defeating Jersey 4-1 at home. Expect that strong play to continue tonight. Should be a great game though: I expect Montreal to come out flying to try and win this one for Pacioretty.
GO LEAFS GO!
BRUINS!
Posted by: Pyramid Power | 03/24/2011 at 11:05 AM
@ Geoff - outside of the team you cheer for, we are usually on the same page. The 'clean record in the past' argument is a bit ridiculous in a sense as you stated. Chara often continues throwing punches at guys while they are down. I don't put him in the Matt Cooke category by any stretch but I think the extra punches when players are down is something the league should try to stop. If I were a linesman, I would hate breaking up his fights or be the guy who is supposed to hang on the tree limb that is Chara's arms and stop him from getting in an extra shot. I think Lucic is guilty of doing the same thing and Thornton actually got called for it when he fought Cooke in response to the Savard hit. I know that means they might have to reverse the decisions on many Wendel Clark scraps over the years given his penchant for the few late shots on the ground.
Posted by: TG77 | 03/24/2011 at 11:20 AM
Geoff I would have been shocked and kinda annoyed if Wilson or Leafs management asked the league to review the hits on Grabbo by Chara. If memory serves he was rightfully penalized for at least one of those hits, but they were just tough tough hits. Not clean hits, but not suspendable either.
If I am wrong about this please advise fellow Leafs fans. Those hits were nasty, Grabbo did get concussed on one of them, but those hits were not suspendable and am 99.9% sure the Leafs did not complain to the league or media about those hits.
Chara plays against the other team's best players game in and game out and logs heavy minutes. He is a tree and acknowledged to be the strongest guy in the league. He takes a LOT of abuse himself. Do you blame him for losing it occasionally? But the fact he has never been suspended speaks for itself.
I don't think he has ever even come close to being suspended outside of the Pacioretty hit and whining Canadiens fans calling 911, and making Chara public enemy #1. Ridiculous but what else can you expect from most Canadiens fans nowadays? They used to be classy long ago especially pre-Bell Centre days at the Forum before 1996. Sadly, they mostly are not anymore.
Posted by: Pyramid Power | 03/24/2011 at 11:32 AM
@TG77- I usually agree with you as well. As I've said before, I think it's time to get rid of fighting altogether; but that aside, I agree wholeheartedly that punching a guy when he's down is extremely dangerous and is, in fact, a deeply cowardly act.
VM Replies: You may hate fighting. But if a Canadien engages Chara tonight and somehow ends up landing a few, I'm willing to bet good money you'll be standing and screaming with an adrenaline-fueled combination of ecstasy and bloodlust that's rare for a historian.
I could be wrong. But I'm willing to make that bet.
Posted by: Geoff Read | 03/24/2011 at 11:34 AM