An Old Fashioned Barn Burner....

The Habs score 5 goals and lose...waaaaaah?? Yep Les Boys came back from a 3 goal deficit, and almost survived a bad night from Huet....but Brad Stuart popped in 2 goals in the third....waaaaah?? and the Habbies lost an up and down, barn burner, 6-5, to their long time rival Bruins.

Huet looked tired and was pulled in the 2nd. Abby was unable to make the key saves, when his team needed them. This lose came down to goal tending...had the Habs had a solid performance by Huet, they would have won this game big.

So what does this mean for the rest of the week?? Does Carbo sit Huet, against the Devils on Wednesday? Does he then start Huet on Thursday, and Saturday against the Islanders, and Sabres? Hard to say, Abby has not won a game in months, but Huet looks tired, and may need a break. This is going to be a tough week...the Habbies way end the week with 4 straight loses....gut check time in the MTL je pense.

A Win Against The Leafs Is Always Nice.....

It wasn't pretty, heck the Leafs took it to Les Boys for 2/3s of the night, but a face smash of Tucker by Franky Boullion, and a brilliant 3rd period by Captian Koivu...oh ya and I heard that Raycroft's soiled jockstrap (caused by Souray's fake slapper in the s.o.) is on sale on Ebay...the Habs pulled it out, a win is a win is a win.


I have to admit, I did not pay much attention to the game last night, in between debating the Liberal Leadership Convention, sharing drunken prose with a buddy, and consoling a friend that was pissed off at another friend for standing her up...the game was more back ground noise then anything else. I saw Bou Bou k.o. Tucker, that brought me to my feet, and I saw Koivu take his Habs on his shoulders in the 3rd....I was glued to the shoot out (debate its effect on the game all ya want, but when your boys win, its great fun). The Habs ended the week on a high, they have still yet to lose 2 games in a row...like I said a win against the Leafs is always nice.


Weekly 3 Stars time. 1st Star, gotta give it to Huet, he has been a monster. 2nd Star, Saku, Captain K, is paired up with a rookie and a snake bitten winger, yet he still produces when it counts. 3rd Star.....hmmm screw it, let Huet have that star as well, nuff said. Joe's Doghouse... Sammy, he has moved in, and seems comfortable there. I guess I will put the 7 headed monster that is the Habs defence on notice...too hard to single any one dman out, but I have my eye on these guys, Huet can't save their bacon every night...clear the zone for shit sakes. There is always room in the Doghouse, Sammy doesn't take up all that much room.

Glad I Missed It....

Well all of it except for say the last 12 minutes of the 3rd period, which were the critical moments of the game...7 straight minutes of penalty killing, and a game winning goal by public enemy number one in Habsville, one Justin Williams...and I am left thinking damn, why was CSI a repeat lastnight. Meh......bring on the Leafs.

Huet Getting The Shaft???

Habs net minder Cristobal Huet currently has the both the best goals against average, and save percentage of any net minder in the NHL. He has a personal six game winning streak, and he is fresh from a shutout of the Panthers. How then, is Huet not on the All Star ballot??? I am asking any Hab fan out there, or any hockey fan who views this as a travesty to write Huet in, go here:
http://www2.nhl.com/allstarballot/
Help a guy out will ya.

An Old Fashioned Goaltending Dual

Was a bit of a yawner last night. The Panthers played Jacques Martin hockey, and both goaltenders, Huet and Auld played solid games. There are a bunch of Hab fans out there worried about the Habs lack of scoring 5 on 5, it is a concern for sure, but I don't think it is a Habs problem alone, every team in the league has adjusted their game to account for the powerplay chances, for and against. The Zebras swallowed their whistles last night, and the result was a 1-0 win via a shoot out pour les Habs.


I was impressed with the way the Habs threw their bodies last night, Begin and Komi were hitting everything that moved. Although, the Habs were not lighting the lamp, they skated well, and more importantly for a full 60 minutes....2 more big games this week, against the Canes, and the Leafs, I don't expect anymore 1-0 games. That's all I have got, it was that kind of game, the goalies stood out, other then that...um well it was a chess match between Martin, and Carbo..checkmate Carbo on this night.

Revenge Is A Dish Best Served Cold

The Habs face the Panthers tonight. A week and a half or so ago the Panthers spanked the Habs 5-1, in an unspired game, that saw the Habs disappear in the 2nd period and never recover. Change venue, tonights game is in Mtl, not the sun shine state, and change netminder, Huet gets the start tonight, not the struggling Abby...and I expect the Habs to play a much better game tonight. Say what you want about the way the Habs play against the league's lesser lights, this should be a relatively easy 2 points pour les boys. I will recap the game tomorrow morning, try my best to break down the good, the bad, and the ugly......go Habs go!!!

And Now To Complete The Trilogy.....

Sometimes, you go to the well too often...sometimes it is better to tell a story in 2 parts instead of 3....cliches, cliches, cliches, I know, but like my Habbies, I have had a running theme all week, and like my Habbies, it would probably be better to quit when ahead...whoops nah, that cliche doesn't work so well in this case (the habs were up 1-0, in the first, and well quit, that didn't turn out so well). Know what..I think thats all I will say about the game lastnight, it was ugly from say the 10 minute mark in the 1st to say well the 10 minute mark of the 3rd. The Habs only showed up for half a game...ding ding ding....hence the lose.

Lets skip to some fun stuff. There is alot of rumour chatter out there right now, teams have had time to evaluate their rosters, and well except for the hinderance that is the cap, alot of GMs are itchy to tweak their lineups. So when I need a rumor fix (sorry no offence faux), I visit Spector's site, today's Sunday Rumor Round Up, has Habbies sprinkled all through it.....take a look.........
http://spectorshockey.tripod.com/default.html. Okay, time for my 2 cents....the names bandied about are Abby, and Souray...the returns are Seabrook, a fresh body from Pheonix or the King's, and Dupius from the Wild. If I was Gainey I would move Seabrook for Souray in a minute, that said, Chicago is looking for a center to play with Havlat, and Montreal is also in dire need of a centerl...this deal helps the Habs in terms of their glut of UFA defencemen, but I can't see how it would help Chicago in the long term. Abby is another matter, the market for a back up goalie has been heating up. The Yotes, the Kings, and now the Predators are all jonesing for help between the pipes. The stellar goaltending of Huet, coupled with the average netminding of Abby, makes it alot easier for Gainey to ship Abby out of town, agian it will depend on the return, the cap hit, etc, etc, but I would not be shocked if Abby gets moved. It is good to see some names being thrown around, I expect that nothing will get done before the trade deadline, but its always fun to pontificate.

Okay time for my weekly 3 Stars, and Joe's doghouse lists..lets get down to it. My 1st star of the week is Huet, he was stellar in all 3 of the Hab's modest 3 game winning streak, he has been great, good to see. My 2nd star, Markov, he has solidified himself as the Habs top defenceman, he and Komi have being excellent for the last month or so. 3rd star, Bonk, Bonkers has been fantastic all year, a game winning goal, and the continued amazing work by he and his linemates in shutting down the best line of opposing teams could have merited him and heck his linemates, Johnson, and Perez, all 3 stars this week. Who let the dogs out, who, who, who...ah yes the Doghouse, lets see, Mike Ryder, listen buddy, I gave you a vote of confidence last week, I went out on a limb and projected that you would be a star this week...pffft, and this is how you repay me, for shame. Sammy, Sammy, Sammy, you are digging a hole my friend. Finally I am going to have to take Carbo to task...sure the Habs are 5th in the East, sure the Habs special team work has been stellar..but, damn Carbo, quit bitching and whining at the refs, you are setting a bad example, and well the Habs now have a target on their chests....and what is with the second period let downs....figure this stuff out, the dog days are approaching, this product aint gonna sell much longer.

Two Thirds Effort Part Duex

Well scratch my back with a hacksaw....if you were to tell me that the Habs would disappear for a whole period, and hold the Sabres to only one goal, and also beat them in o.t. I would have called ya nuts.


Again I predicted doom and gloom if the Habs failed to play a full 60 minutes, and again the Habs pull out a win. It was at times ugly, but another win nonetheless....dare I make a similar prediction tonight? HaHa nah, the Habs should have no problem beating the Flyers with only 2/3 effort. However, yep there is always a however, this game has all the other trappings of a lose. First it is the second of a back to back. Second, well it's the Flyers, the Habs tend to play down to their competition (see Chicago, or Florida). Lastly, Huet gets a rest tonight, meaning Abby gets the start, and well Abby has not been all that good in his last 3 or 4 starts....conclusion, the Habs win 5-3.....or not, seems I can't predict what my Habbies are going to do lately.

Sometimes Two Thirds Effort Is Enough

Thankfully my doom and gloom post from yesterday did not come to fruition. The Habs beat the Wild 4-2. A fast start in the first, and a solid performance in the third sealed the deal. However, the Hab's disappearance act in the second period, must be cause for concern. The wild out shot the Habs 22-7, and scored 2 goals (would have potted more, had Huet not brought his A-game). The Habs can not afford to pull a similar disappearing act on Friday against the Sabres, the Wild, are a banged up team, their 2 top scores are injured, the Sabres however, average almost 5 goals a game, if Huet is left out to dry against the Sabres, the Sabres are going to fill his net.

On a positive note, Kovalev played his best game of the season. The pleks back up on the second line, seemed to light a fire under the enigmatic second line. Sammy, and Pleks were on the ice for both wild goals, but plugged away all night, can't complain too much about their games overall. The Habs third line still comes up big when it matters, Bonk scored the game winner, and Markov, and Komi, have solidified themselves as a true 1-2 combo on defence.

The Habs have not won 3 games in a row all season long, and that quest does not get any easier against the Sabres on Friday night. If the Habs, simplify their game, limit their defensive zone turnovers, and put in a full 60 minute effort...they might, and I stress might, beat the red hot Sabres.

Beware

Tonight's game versus the Wild, has all the trappings of a lose. First, the Habs have not played since Saturday night...which often leads to a sluggish start. Second, the Wild are fresh from a lose to the Senators...Mr lemaire will have his boys ready for action. Add to all this the Manny Fernandez from Montreal connection (Quebec goaltenders always play huge in Montreal), the historical connection that Lemaire, and Trembley (arch enemy number one in my books) the stars seem to line up in the Wild's favor.

The Wild are without their superstar Gaborik (nothing new there), but this is a team whose forecheck, and team speed can get the best of any team in the league. If the Habs are going to pull this one out, they are going to have to have a fast start. The Habs are going to need a relentless forecheck themselves, and most importantly they are going to have to avoid their nasty habit of being trapped in their own end for extended periods. If the Habs bring their A game (one never knows with the Habs, see previous post), this game has all the makings of a thriller. If however, the Habs come out flat, and can not get the puck out of their own end...Huet et al are in for a long night.

This is how I work, I prepare myself for the worst...that way if les boys play a stinker I am prepared, and if they pull one out its all gravy...lets hope for the later.

Bipolar

Will the real Montreal Canadiens please stand up?? Two nights ago the Habs were fresh from a stinker of a lose to the Florida Panthers....this morning, after a night that saw Habs great Serge Savard's number retired, the Habs are enjoying the after glow of their best 60 minute performance of the season. What gives, do the Habs collectively forget to take their meds every now and then.

Last nights game was a good one, Les Boys in my opinion, played their best horn to horn game of the season. Sure they only scored 3 goals, sure they still took too many penalties, but the Habs to a man (except Kovi, see dog house) all played hard.

Alright, ladies and gentleman, time for my weekly 3 Stars/Joe's Doghouse picks. First my 3 Stars of the week, here it goes: First Star, Huet, he has claimed the starter role, he has been excellent for the last couple of weeks, he looks like the Huet of last year, all great news for the Habs. Second Star, Markov, if you squint hard, and can look past the huge shadow that is the Souray slap shot, you will see that Markov is leading the Habs in scoring, and effectively shut down, not only the dynamic duo of Vinny L/St Louis, but also the 3 headed beast that is Altlanta's Hossa/Kovalchuck/Kozlov, Markov has emerged as the Habs best dman. Third Star, Perezhogin, the kid is not filling the net, but his plus 11, is tops on the Habs, and top 5 in the league as well. He works hard every shift, he and his line mates Bonk and Johnson, have developed into a stellar checking line.

Time for Joe's Doghouse, geez, when your favorite team is as bipolar as the Habs are, the doghouse ebbs and flows, guys are on it mid week, only to redeem themselves late in the week. all that said, here it goes....Kovalev, he is a charter member, I believe he has been in the doghouse every week this year, nice work, at least you are accomplishing something Alex. Abby, I gotta put you in the doghouse this week, your poor play has forced Carbo to change up his inane 2 games on, 2 games off goaltending tandem system, hat tip Abby, I never liked that system anyway....finally, hmmm this is a rough one but I guess I have to call out Ryder (broke out last night), the newf hasn't been the same since Higgins went down to injury...if last night's game is a sign of light, I expect Ryder may be a star next week, who knows, being bipolar, only time will tell. Thats it, thats all I have got. Go Habs Go.

Oh ya......

Don't look now, but the Bruins, and the Sens are heating up. The Habs, and the Leafs better get their collective shit together. The North East division is going to tighten up fast. Its going to be a horse race, the Eastern Conference as a whole is wide open, a .500 record will probably sneak a team into the post season, all five teams in the North East should make a push for the playoffs...well maybe not the Bruins, but who knows?

What A Change A Day Makes

Yesterday, the Habs where fresh from an impressive road win, they were winners of 2 consecutive games, for only the second time all year...all was well in Habsland. This morning, things don't seem so rosy. The Habs had their asses handed to them by a Panther team that was riding a 4 game losing streak, and well by most accounts were supposed to be the inferior team.


Okay, I will admit it, I did not watch this one, I saw maybe 30 seconds in the second period...actually saw the Habs lone goal by Pleks. I also saw Jokinen's hat trick goal with 30 seconds left in the third. Yesterday I played basketball, and well Thursday is a huge night for tv watching. So, it is difficult for me to analyse what went wrong last night. All I have to go on, is what I have read on Habs boards, and from snippets on sportscenter. I guess this one can be credited to the usual excuses, 2 games in 2 nights, the usual struggle the Habs have in Florida, the final game of the year's longest road trip. All valid excuses, but all cop outs as well.


I blame this one on coaching. The team that the Habs had on the ice against the Lighting was impressive, why change it? Huet played a great game 2 nights ago, sure it was a second game in 2 nights, sure Carbo probably wanted Huet fresh for the Thrashers at home on Saturday, but, but, I am a firm believer in riding the hot goalie. Carbo's rotation system has lost its effectiveness, Huet has earned the number one spot, time to ride your horse. I disagree with the other roster changes that Carbo made as well....sure it seems to make sense to sit Janne; on paper it was a no brainer. That said, Dandy on the wing on the fourth line, made that fourth line, probably the fastest in the league, they gave the Lighting fits, why change it??


Okay, so the Habs longest trip of the season is over, they return home for a Saturday night tilt, against the high powered Thrashers. Huet should get the start, I think Janne will ride the pine again, he is done. What have the Habs learned on this trip, what issues have been brought up? Thinking positively, it looks like Huet has earned his raise, and has given the Habs a solid number one in goal. The kids, Lats, and Kosti, look like keepers. The powerplay is still rolling. Dandy is back, and Janne is sitting. On the negitive side, Ryder is playing the worst hockey of his young career, Kovi is still an engima, the team still disappears for long stretches every game, and they still are racking up far to many penalty minutes...mediocracy as usual.


That is all I have got. Saturday's game against the Thrashers, is a big one. Carbo if he is smart (the jury is still out on that one) will practise this team hard, work on defensive zone coverage, back checking sans hook, trip, or obstruction. Time for the Habs to keep things simple, use their speed, and forecheck damn it. Rant over, I am out.

Road Warriors

The Habs won consecutive games for only the second time all year, and are 2-1 so far on their longest road trip of the year. Tonight's game against the Lightning, saw the Habs come out with their all too typical slow start. First period heroics between the pipes by Huet, and yet another powerplay blast by Souray, allowed the Habs to sneak out of the first period, tied 1-1.

The Habs outplayed the Lighting for the remaining 2 periods, and pulled out a 3-1 victory, against a hot Lighting team. All and all a good road win for the Habs. The defensive play of Markov, and Komi was stellar. The defensive duo was on the ice every time the duo of Vinny L, and St Louis were on the ice, and did a fantastic job shutting down the hot pair. Souray, although ugly at times in his own end, scored 2 more powerplay goals, and Rookie Gui Latendresse, continued his hot scoring, when he tallied the Habs 3rd powerplay goal of the night, a laser beam of a shot to the top hand corner, which helped the Habs seal the deal.

The standouts tonight, were Markov, and Komi. Hat tip to Souray because of the pp goals, and Huet who was great again tonight. I liked the way the second line looked tonight, Kosti is a keeper. Dandy who played the wing, had great jump, and hit everything, and Begin who played on a line with Dandy, played his best game of the year. As for the guys who are struggling, Ryder, is really fighting the puck, he hasn't been the same player since Higgins got hurt. Janne well ya Janne, Janne had another sub par game, he sat and looked at Vinny P, and allowed the Lighting forward to deflect in the only Lighting goal....he whined when he got a penalty, he was crap, I expect that that may have been his last game as a Hab for awhile, barring injury of course. Other then Ryder, and Janne, the Habs played a solid team game, Carbo was able to roll 4 lines, and they all contributed in their own way. I wasn't blown away by the Habs performance tonight, but I wasn't disappointed either..this was a good honest road win. Go Habs Go.

Dandy Ready To Return To Action

Habs defenseman Mathieu Dandenault is reportedly ready to return to action, either tonight against the Lighting or at home Saturday versus the Thrashers. Dandenault's return, means the coach Carbo has a decision to make, as to who he will scratch on d to make room for Dandy. The Habs top four dmen, Markov, Komi, Souray, and Rivet are of course safe, Carbo has to pick between Striet, or Niniimaa. Mark Striet, who is by no stretch of the imagination, a physical presence on the back end, has not looked out of place on the Hab's blueline this year. He has 5 assists in I believe 11 games, and judging from the games I have seen this year, has made only a limited amount of defensive brainfarts. This of course brings me to Janne, oh Janne, you are the Habs new whipping boy (you replaced Ribs, whatya expect). Niniimaa, has been the worst dman on the Habs thus far this year (quite an accomplishment, really), Janne's play of late has not only pissed off the fans, and the media, but there are numerous reports that coach Carbo is not all that impressed with him either. So what does this all mean, logic would dictate that Janne sits for Dandy, and Striet stays on until the Cube returns...something tells me though that it will be Mark Streit that rides the pine. Its awful hard to sit a 2.4 million dollar asset in the press box.

A Win, Is A Win, Is A Win

It was at times ugly, and it certainly was nothing to write home about, but the Habs took care of business against the shockingly lowly Senators last night. The Habs came out flat in the first period, the Sens had all the jump, but Huet kept the Habs in it early, and the tide slowly changed from the second period onward.

I saw this game as a snap shot of both teams performances thus far this year. The Sens, came out of the gate, guns blazing, only to be spanked in the third period yet again. There is something wrong in the Nations Capital. Whether it be chemistry, leadership, goal tending, guts, or coaching, a shake up is eminent in Ottawa, of that I am sure. As for the Habs, this game was typical of their early season performance thus far...they came out flat, listless, Mike Komisarek's huge hit on McGratton, and his shorthanded goal woke the Habs up, but the Habs continue to play with fire, with their undisciplined play. Yes their special team play has been stellar, but you can not continually allow the other team to have powerplay chances....this game should have been over when the Habs were up 4-1. A steady Habs stream to the penalty box, allowed the Sens to make it close, when they scored 2 powerplay goals in the third to make it 4-3. Mike Johnson thankfully put it away with his unassisted wrister. If you are a frequenter of any of the Habs forums out there, you know that many fans believe that their team is being singled out by the refs...I wouldn't go that far, yes I believe the refs are inconsistent, and well piss poor, but I will not succumb to a conspiracy theory yet. The time has come for Carbo and the rest of his staff, to study game film, and try and teach this team how to stay out of the box.

So yes, a win, is a win, is a win. The Habs once again did not show up for a full 60 minutes, but I was impressed, not only with the kids, Lats, Kosti, and Perez, were stellar, but, Komi, Huet, Saku, and the whole 3rd line played excellent games last night. As messy as this game was at times, the right team won. Go Habs Go.

Congrats Patrick

Earlier today fromer Habs netminder Patrick Roy was inducted into the Hockey Hall Of Fame. Love him or hate him, Patrick Roy's accomplishments speak for themselves. Most regular season wins, most games played, most post season wins, 3 Conn Smythe trophies, 3 Vezina trophies, 4 Stanley Cups, oh ya and he revolutionalized his position with the butterfly style.


Patrick Roy supplied me with some of my favorite hockey memories. He will forever be one of my hockey heros. Debate all you want about his arrogance, or whether he quit on the Habs, Patrick Roy was a competitor, a warrior, and a winner. This is his big day, and I just want to say thanks Patrick for the memories.

Tonight's Game Is A Good Test.....

The Habs are in Ottawa tonight to play the enigmatic Senators. This game ought be a good test for both teams. Although the Habs have a better record, their play of late, has closely mirrored the struggles of the Senators. Neither team has been able to put together full 60 minute efforts as of late. Could this be the game where the Sens finally prove that they are in fact the class of North East Division (them and Buffalo, whose bubble has to burst some time right)? Is this the game, where the Habs mediocracy is once again exposed by a superior opponent? Or do the Habs have the pride to bounce back from a horrid performance against the Leafs, and take a big bite out off the struggling Sens. This tilt is a big one, this a tone setting game for both teams. I expect a tight game, both teams lost their last games, and must be hungry for some points, and position.

Les Miserables

I could spit adjectives, throw in a few f bombs, even throw in a tabernac...Last nights Habs performance against the Leafs, was by far their worst showing thus far this year. The Habs played with no emotion, there was no desire to win, they seemed unprepared, and what's worse they seemed not all that concerned.

This should have been a game for the taking, the Leafs were down their captain and best player, Mats Sundin, the were also playing sans starting netminder Andrew Raycroft. Sure the Habs have injury issues themselves, the lose of leading scorer, and best all around player Chris Higgins, is a kick in the pants. But, but the Habs were a no show lastnight.

So what went wrong??? Aside from the fact, that the Habs were listless, and seemed disinterested. I will start with discipline. How can a team, that does not play a physical game, be the second most penalized team in the league??? The Habs game, when successful, is speed driven, they should be drawing penalties not getting them. Sure the Habs have the best p.k. in the league, practice makes perfect right??? But, to continually be behind the 8 ball, to limit the ice time of the skilled keys, simply because the same 8 guys are on the ice for 60% of the game, is not a formula for success. I have no problem, with tough, physical hockey, I would love nothing more then to see my Habs, smashing guys all over the ice. This is however, not how the Habs are getting their penalties. They had 2 delay of the game penalties, both Souray, and Markov, shot the puck over the boards in their own end (worst penalty on the books in my opinion), the rest of the penalties were lazy penalties, hooking, tripping, or interference. Time for some hard practice, time for the coaching staff to bust some heads, work on fundamentals, punish laziness, there is now reason that the Habs should be the second most penalized team in the league.

So, the Habs are on the road, for the next 3 games, the play the Sens, then 2 games in Florida, this trip is important. Road trips can act as team building experiences. This team needs an identity, they need to develop a style of play. Time for coach Carbo to coach.

3 stars of the week: I have been in Ottawa for the last couple of weeks, so I really haven't watched my boys, that said, here it goes. 1) Lats, yep Lats, why? Well because he has scored his first goal of the year, and had a pretty assist lastnight. 2) Huet, nice to see this guy start to get his game back, earn his raise. 3) ummm Saku, because he is Saku, I guess.

Joe's doghouse: Janne Niniimma, yep, I was warned, and well he hasn't impressed. Kovi, this guy has earned permanent status here, sure his line had a couple of good scoring chances last night, but he has played so uninspired that, I just wanna shake him. Downey/Murray, the fourth line, has been useless, I'd give them a free pass if the were hitting, but they aren't even doing that.....Crap.

Man Down

Chris Higgins, who in my opinion is the Habs best all around player, is expected to miss up to six weeks with a high ankle sprain. This is horrible news, not only is he leading the Habs in scoring this year, but he is also a huge part of the reason that the Habs penalty kill has been so stellar early on this year. It looks that his spot on the top line will be filled by rookie Gui Latendresse. Lats who has failed to impress anyone (okay, maybe some delusional members of the French press), I believe will spend maybe a shift and a half on the top line. Expect either Kovalev, Sammy, or maybe Perezhogin, or even Plekanic to see time with Saku and Ryder.

Will this injury, force Bob's hand? Will he be having serious discussions with his fellow GMs at their little sit down? Hard to say, It has been reported that the Habs had scouts at the Wings, Flyers game the other night. But were the Habs scouting the Wings or the Flyers, I figure every team in the NHL might be eyeing the Flyers right now, they are about to be blown up, and who knows where the the scrapnel may land. I for one believe that the Kings and Habs might be suitable suitors..Souray, for Conroy, problem with that deal being, that the Kings are already flush on defence, and the Habs are weak on the back end. A multiplayer deal perhaps envolving Souray, an Nhl ready prospect forward, maybe a pick, for Conroy, and Tverdosky?? Speculation of course. Bob is a patient man, he may sit on his hands, see how his team plays sans Higgins. All I can tell you is that, the lose of Higgins is huge. He is a big reason that the Habs have had such a respectable start. He can not be replaced via trade, but, it may force Bob to address other holes in his line up.

Thoughts Of The Sens Vs. Canes

I had the opportunity, thanks to my friend Angela to see the Senators Vs. Hurricanes game on Saturday night. We had fantastic seats, in the 100 level, almost ice level toward the west end corner of the boards. The Scotia Bank Center, although far to far from Ottawa, is a beautiful rink, smaller then I am used to, the Centre Bell, seems huge in comparison, but oh well, the Sens sold it out, and that is all that matters right.

As for the game itself. The Sens, and their struggling captain Daniel Alfredsson came flying out of the gate. Alfie scored an early goal, and it looked like the Sens were back on their game. The Sens played a solid first period. The second period was dull. Early in the third the Hurricanes seemed to find there game..helped greatly by a parade to the penalty box by the Sens, eventually leading to Ray Whitney's second goal of the game, and the game winner.

My impressions of the 2 teams that most thought would be among the class of the Eastern Conference. First Ottawa, Ottawa can skate with any team in the league. They are still blessed, with elite level offensive talent. Their problem, they over handle the puck, and they do not shoot enough. I was sitting surrounded by die hard Sens fans, and all I heard the whole night was shoot the freaking puck. I also heard alot of anti Heatley rumblings, stuff like why did we trade Hossa for this guy, and I haven't been impressed with this guy since he arrived. The player I was most unimpressed with was Spezza, he seemed lazy, and uninspired. Overall, I still believe the Senators have the goods to make the playoffs, there is far too much talent on this team to think otherwise. They need to learn to shoot the puck, and crash the net. They still lack that killer instinct, that desire to go for the jugular. But by the end of the year when the smoke settles, they will sit near the top of the Eastern Conference, probably with around 100 points.

As for last years Stanley Cup Champions the Hurricanes, first impressions, the first thing you notice is how god awful ugly their white away jerseys are. But seriously, the Canes are a solid team. I was really impressed with Rod Brind Amour, who just so happened to score his 1000 point on Saturday night. Brind Amour does everything well, he is complete hockey player, a rare beast in this day and age. Eric Cole was also impressive, and Stoll, although I believe he was held of the score sheet, looks like the real deal to me. The Canes although they had a slow start, I believe will also be at the upper edge of the Eastern Conference come years end. If Cam Ward can play anywhere near the level he played in last years playoffs (hangover in full effect with this kid), and if Rutherford can pull off some trade deadline magic like he did last year, the Canes are still contenders.

Oh ya Go Habs Go.

Going To A Sens Game

Just a little, how do you do. Turns out I am going to get to see a game after all. I am going to see the Senators play the Hurricanes on Saturday night. Would have much rather have went to see my Habs play the Sens, early next week, but not only is that a premium game, with inflated ticket prices, but looks like it is pretty much completly sold out...d'oh. So in my abscence, it seems the Habs have dropped one in o.t. to the Leafs and beat the aforementioned Sens the other night. Can't really give you my impression of either game, only caught snippets on Sports Desk.

I will try to report in, with my impressions of the Canes and the Sens, perhaps, Monday morning. Neither team has impressed at all this year, I will break down why I think they are struggling. Keep your stick on the ice all.

Upper Canadian Invasion

I will be blogging rather lightly for the next week or so. I am on my way to Ottawa, and then a short stint in the Mtl. The trip is not at all hockey related, the Sens are on the road most of next week, and budget, and lack of planning (except for the charming of a girl in Ott, and the drinking of a ton of beer in Mtl) have made the viewing of a game pretty much out of the question. Oh well girls and beer, are not such a bad thing, I will catch a coupla games later on in the season.


As for last nights game versus the Bruins, I missed almost all of the first 2 periods. When I finally turned the game on, I just missed the Kovalev meltdown..I did however witness the Bruin powerplay goal that tied the game up. This was yet another stinker, it had the same feel as the Chicago game a week or so ago. I am not sure if the Bruins, and Hawks, play a similar game, maybe the game plan against the Habs, is to play a clutch and grab, old school Nhl game, and hope that the Habs get the majority of the penalties. Which of course was the case lastnight. The Habs have a discipline problem, and the continued whining by the coaching staff right on threw the line up, is certainly not going to endear the Habs to the refs.


Good on Huet for playing playing a solid 60 minute game, good on Higgins for being well Higgins, and good on Markov, for scoring the game winner. Hat tip to some of my buddies in the blogosphere for warning me about the inaptitude of Janne Niinimaa. He certainly is an early candidate for my doghouse, add Kovalev, Lats, and Carbo to the early list as well.

Leaving on a jet plane, don't know when I'll be back again. Cheers.

Carbo Shuffles Lines

Coach Carbo, in an attempt to get production out of his second line, has decided to promote rookie Gui Latendresse to the second line, and demote Samsonov to the fourth. I for one think that this is a brainfart of a move, Lats has yet to prove anything at the pro level, Sammy although not lighting up the score sheet, has at least shown some wheels, and I think was just beginning to feel comfortable in the Habs system. The problem with the second line is twofold, first Pleks is not a second line center, he is responsible defensively, and can skate, but he can not distribute the puck, and has hands of stone. But the the number one problem on the second line, is Kovalev, he is a floater, and he has seemed disinterested all year long.

Until Kovalev learns that there are 4 other line mates on the ice with him at any given time. Until he stops over handling the puck, and losing it in the corner, or worse at the opposing teams blue line, the second line is never going to be effective. I see Carbo's experiment lasting all of maybe 3 shifts, Lats, can not keep up with NHL caliber skaters, and Kovalev being Kovalev, will cough up the puck, leading to potential 5-3s whenever that line is on the ice....Why promote an under achieving teenager, demote a guy that is just getting his feet wet, all in an attempt to accommodate, a diva that should be the focus of the punishment, screw the star treatment, time for Kovalev to earn is millions in my opinion .

The Janne Jinx

Dear Mr Niinimaa, the hockey god's have spoken, never, ever, ever, meddle with Kharma, it has a funny way of coming back and biting you in the ass. Yep, the Habs played a stinker lastnight. First Huet lets in a Tommy Saloesque goal off his head, Souray then rings one off the post, Markov, well he coughed up the puck leading to a Chris Drury goal...the jinx was on lastnight, thanks Janne.

I could go on a triade about how Huet looks like a one year wonder, how he spends more time on his knees then a 2 dollar...eeks better stop there. How Markov is not playing like he knows it is his contract year, how Kovalev, is a greedy player, who over handles the puck, on how Lats looks like an 18 year old playing in a man's league..oh right whoops no triade right, my bad....this one was over as soon as Huet let in the floater off his mellon in the first. I switched it off early in the 3rd to watch CSI Miami, which was advertised to be all spooky, it wasn't shoulda known that show never fails to disappoint...Mondays suck.

Jose Gets Smoked

Windy and cold, bundled up in a hoody, togue, sick as a dog..Heck the fireplace was even roaring. Habs down 3-1 after the first, that's when the cough came, 2 beers left in the fridge, damn it was going to be a long night. Then, like only Jose Theodore can do, the flood gates opened, my Habs score 2 in the second period, still phlegmie, still out of beer. Early in the third Craig Rivet, ha yes Rivet of all people goes in on a breakaway, and scores 5-4 Habs....I am out of my seat, the Bell Centre is in full Jose taunt, phlegm be damned.

When it was all said and done, when the dust settled, when the Jose taunts, and the NA NA NA NA's hey hey hey good byes stopped, the Habs embarrassed Theodore and the Avs 8-5. Souray, yep Joe's favorite whipping boy has a 2 goal and 2 assist night, shoot even the Russians scored a coupla points each. Fun night, the stage was set, this game could have gone either way, Jose could have had one of his rare starts, where he looks like the MVP, and Veniza trophy winner, but it didn't happen, the Jose that we as Habs fans have grown to despise showed up....I for one couldn't have been any happier, come back soon Jose, you are always welcome.

Joe's 3 Stars of week 2:

1) Sheldon Souray, hate to do it, but I have to give props to Souray, he is putting the puck in the net, has the Hab's power play rolling. He still scares me in the Hab's end, but well at this point, every dman on the team is rather scary down low.

2) Radek Bonk, playing a killer defensive game this year, and heck he is even chipping in offensively.

3) Koivu/Higgins/Ryder, the first line, yep all of them, couldn't single one out, they are all playing well, a cohesive unit..Good to see.

Joe's Doghouse:

Hate to do this to, but Andrei Markov, has to get his head out off his ass, he played a nice game lastnight against the Avs, and he has 7 assists so far this year, but his defensive play has been average at best. Kovalev, again played a pretty good game against the Avs, but he needs to play hard every shift, and bring the best out of his linemates. Finally Steve Begin, I am not entirely sure if he is playing through injury, but Begin has not been the impact player he was last year.

La Grande Retour De Jose Le Beau

The most hyped date on the Habs early season schedule has arrived. Jose Theodore, and Patrice Brisebois, are back in Montreal, as the Avs battle the Habs tonight. This is a hot ticket, Theodore, love him or lump him, is a media darling. He puts bums in the seats. The crowd at La Centre Bell, should be all a buzz tonight. I for one am not a Theodore fan, and I never liked Brisebois either. Here is hoping Les Boys, expose Brisebois for the soft dman that he is, and score at will against Mr Hair Tonic. The only thing that could make this game even more appealing would be if the Avs would wear some throw back Nordiques uniforms, oh ya, and maybe if Dale Hunter and Pierre Mondou dropped the ceremonial first puck. Should be a fun one, I will of course, blog my impressions tomorrow, and break down my Habs second week performance. Salut.

What Is The Deal With......

The Flyers, Senators, and the Flames. The biggest surprise early on in the 2006-07 season, is not the fast start of the Sabres, the Wild, or even the Black Hawks, it is the utter inaptitude of the Flyers, Sens, and Flames. First, lets break down their seasons so far, the Flyers in their first 7 games are 1-5-1 (ouch), they have scored only 13 goals in 7 games, less then 2 a game (ouch), and have given up 30 (eeeks). The Senators in their first 6 games are 2-4-0, they have scored only 11 goals, yep less then 2 a game (whhaaaa!!!), and have given up 16 (meh, not bad). The Flames in their first 7 games are 2-4-1, the have scored 15 goals, a smidgen or 2 a game (the famous Tanguay effect), while surrendering 21, or exactly 3 a game (Kipper where art thou).

Okay the Flyers, oh the Flyers, are in a mess, Snider is pissed, Clarke is amiss, and Hitchcock, according to his backup goalie, is empty up there. The fit is going to hit the shan in Philly, methinks. The demotion of Nedved, and 2 other lesser lights (I know their names, but its too much of an effort to try and spell them..One sounds like a terrorist attack on a gardener, the other is all Greek to me), was only the opening volley. Snider from what I have read is about to blow up the whole thing in Philly (the garden as well). But where to begin, is there a quick fix, would firing the coach, give the Flyers that new coach bounce? What about finally taking Bobby Clarke to task, for his inability to assemble a team that can compete in the "new NHL". I think it is time to kick both Bobby, and Hitchcock to the curb, sacrifice this season perhaps, and start anew. But well I am not a Flyers fan, and I know Bobby Clarke is sacred and all in Flyers lore, so who knows???

The Sens, those kings of the regular season, talent to spare, but the hearts of mice come playoff time. The Sens took it in the ass because of the salary cap, they were forced to choose between Chara, and Redden (book is still out on that one), and the dealt away Havlat, who just so happens to be the NHL's early season points leader. I think the Sens front office has to be blown up, Muckler, like Clarke has been able to compile consistently competitive regular season teams...However, the Sens playoff failures, and their slow start this year, must have Mucks, and Murray on a short leash.

Finally the Flames, the Flames, have the best collection of young defensemen in the league, and the reigning Vezina trophy winner behind the pipes. Offence has and still is the Achilles Heel for the Flames. Alex Tanguay, is a solid hockey player, and will fit in nicely with the Flames, once he gets used to the system, but he was not exactly what the Flames needed to stem their offensive woes...The Flames need a center, and until the find a capable center, offence will always be tough to come by in Calgary.

Of the 3 teams I mentioned I think the Flames have the best chance of getting there act together, too much grit and heart on that team to think other wise. The Senators will make the playoffs, but I think the Flyers might be toast.....Should be fun to watch, I think the Flyers blink first.

Blinded By Handzus' Lid

Oh man sitting through last night's Black Hawks vs. Habs game was like trying to sit through a 3 hour Cornation Street marithon. Boring, wow, I was actually knodding off. See, I expected this one to be a goal fest, the Hawks were supposed to have no d, and the Habs were supposed to make them look like an AHL affiliate. But nope, the bizzarro land that has been the Habs this week, have seen a 5-4 thriller against the Flames, and a meh, 2-1 snooze fest against the lowly Hawks.

I hate it when the Habs, lose games against inferior teams, I would not have been all that upset had the Habs went down swinging in a lose against the Flames, who many see as amongst the league's elite, but the Hawks, ugh, there goes 2 points which I am sure will be much needed down the stretch. Sure this was a back to back game, the Habs had to travel to Chicago, after a tough, balls out game against the Flames, but this was only the sixth game of the season, their legs should still be fresh. Ugh, ugh, poop, and hey Handzus, do something with that lid, this isn't FIFA, and big hair rock is dead.

Wild One Lastnight

Had you told me that the Habs and the Flames would score 9 goals combined in one game, I'd have said you were nuts. I predicted that Flames would come out of this contest with a 2-0 win. I figured Kipper who was coming off a soft game against the Leafs, would bounce back, and shut down the Habs offence. Boy was I wrong, to rip off a Maguirism, the book seems to be out on Kipper, he doesn't seem to like the high hard ones...Makes him blink, Sundin blasted a coupla high hard ones by him the other night, and he certainly seemed to blink on Kovalev's slapper that was the game winner lastnight.

Lastnight's game certainly wasn't one for goaltenders, as much as the refs tried to steal the show (15 powerplays, swallow the whistle already), this was an extremely entertaining game to watch. It was up tempo, lots of hitting (the Reghr hit on Downey, legal yes, Scott Stevens on Lindros esque, Downey had is head down, and Reghr took it off), good rough stuff, no fights, I think everyone wanted to see Komi and Iggy go, or Rivet and Phaneuf. All and all the best game I have seen so far this year. It had a playoff feel, both teams wanted to win this one, and it showed.

I have to tip my hat to Radek Bonk, not only has he been doing an admirable job shutting down the other team's top liners all year, he potted a couple of goals tonight. Okay, as much as it pains me to do it, I will tip my hat to Souray as well, he sure does have a blast from the point, and tonight he didn't look like the worst dman on the planet, Markov did, whats with that???

Great game all around, Les Boys, are still undefeated in regulation, bring on those Black Hawks, my brain tells me this should me a 6-4 win for the Habs, but after lastnights bizzarro land score, it just might be a 2-0 win....Who knows.

Week One 3 Stars

Not a bad first 3 games for the Habs. They have come away with 5 out of a possible 6 points on their season opening roadtrip, and I will tip my hat to them.

Thought I might try something new, not sure if it will be a reacurring theme, but I am going to give my Hab 3 stars of the week, then maybe an honourable mention, finish it off wih a Joe's doghouse.

First Star: Saku, considering that a lot of us were not even convinced he was going to start the season, Saku once again proved that he is the toughest little bastard on the planet, and he is playing some of the best hockey of his career to boot.

Second Star: Higgins, this kid is for real, the full package, and probably the next captain of the Habs..Great early start to the season, hasn't missed a beat.

Third Star: Abby, he has earned his starts over Huet so far this year, never a bad thing when you have 2 goalies hungry for ice time.

Honorable mention, Ryder, he is putting the puck in the net, that's what he is paid to do. Komi, he said he wanted to be a force this year, and he is backing up his words so far. Bonk, solid defensively, if only he could put the puck in the net.

Joe's Doghouse, Souray, not fair cuz he kinda dwells there perminately, but he makes me nervous when ever he is on the ice. Sammy/Kovalev, time to get some chemistry boys. Lats, I know on the 4th line, limited ice time, but meh.

Week One Roundup

Was it just me, or was week one of the NHL season a little too quiet. Not enough games for my liking, sure let the NFL have their Sunday, but shoot was there a day this week when the NHL scheduled a full slate of games, get it rolling boys, I have waited all summer, I need a bigger fix.

As for what I have seen so far, well the biggest disappointments have had to be the Senators, Canes, and Preds, I think most hockey analysts predicated (myself included, of course I don't get paid, I bitch on my own time) that these 3 teams were amongst the league's elite. The Senators look like they look come playoff time, the Canes might be suffering from a post Stanley cup hangover, and the Preds, well I think their penalty kill is floating around 30%, ouch. Its early the cream always rises to the top, but yikes, could my big 3 have screwed my predications hahaha, that's what I get looking into a crystal ball I suppose.

As for my Habs, they came out of their first 2 games with 3 out of a possible 4 points. Am I all that impressed with their game, um nope. But if they come away with 75% of the points in all their games this season, wow, I will be a happy blogger. I will, bash and praise some more after I see a little more action.

The Puck is dropped, the ice is clean, lets see some hockey action.

Game One Recap

Where have I seen that before, Habs have a one goal lead late in the third, face off deep in their end...poof, tie game....arrrgghhh. I wasn't all that disappointed with their performance lastnight, they didn't blow me away, but they looked okay. The first line was brilliant, the second line except for Pleks, was um well a no show. Lats didn't impress, Niinimaa, was average, made a brutal give away pass (yes, I was warned of that, thing is well, Brisebois was the same, seen it all before), thankfully Higgins, might have been Pleks, back checked, and saved the day.


Disappointments, Souray, am I surprised, well no, but why Carbo had that asshat on the ice late in the 3rd when the Habs are clinging on to a one goal lead I will never know. Huet was average at best, he made a few brilliant saves, he didn't cost the Habs the game, but he certainly wasn't the reason it was a close one either. Kovalev was a no show, he dangled a bit in o.t. and hit the post in the shootout, other than that meh. Sammy was average, he wasn't a liabilty, but he was nothing to write home about.


Summing up, an entertaining first game, had an almost playoff feel to it. Problem being, that it ended with an all too predictable result. Leafs tonight, I expect more of the same, watch for Wellwood, to win it in a shootout...you heard it hear first.

Everyone Else Is Doing It

Well, okay sure, if everyone else can prognosticate why can't I......These are my early season picks.

East:
1] Carolina- best team in the weakest division.
2] Ottawa- it's now or never, window of opportunity is quickly shutting.
3] New Jersey-Lou has his ducks all in a row.
4] Buffalo-was last year a fluke, or is this the prototype team for the new NHL.
5] NYR- Shanny adds leadership, but Jagr is the key.
6] Philly- all up to Forsberg's health..Why can't Clarke find a goalie?
7] TB- lots of top end talent...goaltending, and moody coach my be the deciding factor.
8] Montreal- my boys, same old thing this year, late run to make the playoffs methinks.
9] Boston- is Chara enough to propel the B's to the next level..Nope not this year.
10] Atlanta- can score, but can they defend??
11]Toronto- younger, faster, better coached.....But not good enough.
12] Florida- Big Bert helps, the Eagle doesn't.
13] Pittsburgh- they are going to be fun to watch, not deep enough yet though.
14] NYI- worst run franchise in sports history, nuff said.
15] Washington- see Pittsburgh.

West:

1]Nashville- might be the best team in hockey.
2] Calgary-best D in the NHL, is Tanguay enough offence though?
3] Anaheim- Pronger doesn't hurt, kids are blossoming, who is their number 1?
4] Detroit- younger, faster..Hasek?
5] San Jose- they can score, but do they have any heart?
6] Dallas- in Turco they trust..Add Big E, and Mickey Ribs to the mix???
7] Edmonton- Pronger gone, they are the west's Buffalo.
8] Minnesota- added some offence to go with their defense.
9] Vancouver- Luongo helps, but with only one line, and a D that is suspect, ouch.
10] phoenix- Gretzky's last year as a coach perhaps.
11] LA- up and comers, a year or two away.
12] Colorado- rebuilding mode begins, and with Theo in nets, good luck.
13] Columbus- see Pittsburgh, and Washington, but further ahead as far as progress.
14] Saint Louis- added some veterans, but still bad, really bad.
15] Chicago- second worst run organization in pro sports.

The Puck Has Dropped

Ah yes, the leaves are falling (almost as fast as the Leafs' playoff hopes..ZING), MLB playoffs have started, the NFL is in full swing, the NBA is in training camp mode....and yes, yes, yes, the puck has dropped for yet another year of the bestest sport on the planet, hockey. This is the time of the year when sports junkies like myself are giddy..... so many options, not enough time, head quite near to exploding......callouses on my remote hand.

Our beloved Habs kick it all off, on Friday against the Sabres. I figure they might get their asses handed to them, the Sabres look tight, and I think the Habs are still a work in progress. Thing is, I don't care, I can't wait to watch the Habs on RDS, I am sick and tired of the Toronto centric TSN hockey coverage....don't get me going on how I feel about Hockey Night In Canada. And what is the deal with meathead hockey commentators..the CBC has Grapes, and now TSN counters with Tie Domi...wow, sure hockey isn't an intellectual enterprise...but please.

Well ya, I am ranting for the sake of ranting...the puck has dropped, I am giddy, giggling like a school girl.....yippee!!!!

Thank You Bob!!!

Oh happy day, the trade of Mike Ribeiro, to Dallas for Janne Niinimaa, was the best news I have heard in quite along time. Personally I could care less, if Mickey Ribs scores a hundred points in Big D...Niinimaa could be the next Brisebois, I don't really care. Ribeiro was my least favorite Hab of all time, his little dive act against the Bruins 3 years ago in the playoffs was unforgiveable. He is soft, doesn't give a crap, a pretty boy, and a cancer...good riddance, salute, bon chance..yipee.

First Look, First Impression

Right so, yes I watched the Habs play last night on RDS, only an exhibition game, not exactly the squad that Carbo is going to ice when the season begins..But, but, meh, this is the same old shit, too small, can't generated enough scoring chances, and when there are chances to score, not enough finishers. The most glaring inadequacy is the defense, Souray is a bum, I am not sure, but it seemed to me that he was on the ice for all four Leaf goals. Please Bob move him and fast while he still has any value of return.
Positives, there were a few, the Koivu line looked solid, Saku looks good, he was the best forward out there last night. Carey Price looks like the real deal, he let in a flukey goal early in the first period, but had they left him in there the whole game, I think the Habs might have pulled this one out. Latendresse, I am still not sold on the guy, but he had a good first period, and does have nice chemistry with Bonk (who was also very good last night), so for the sake of appeasing the French media, give him a chance I guess...5 or 6 games, if he isn't ready let him act like a man amongst boys in Junior. Streit looked good, at least on the powerplay, he is soft in his own end, but he gets the puck on the net, unlike Souray (can anyone say Gaston Gingras).
This team is going to struggle this year I fear...Huet doesn't seem like the same goalie, no upgrade on defense, Kovalev and Sammy seem disinterested..Ribeiro is already on Carbo's shit list. It s going to be a struggle for this team to make the playoffs....Back to the drawing board Bob, this product aint gonna sell.

Saku Still A Question Mark

There is still a great deal of concern about the health of Saku Koivu's eye. Saku says that the eye has improved, but he still has trouble with peripheral vision, and is waiting to see how the eye reacts, during upcoming scrimages, and contact drills at Habs training camp.
You can't help but feel bad for the Hab's captain, if this guy didn't have bad luck he wouldn't have any luck at all. That said, this certainly adds extra emphasis on the fact that Bob Gainey has once again failed to fill a huge void at the center ice position. If Saku is not ready to go, that leaves, the top two center roles, probably in the hands of Mickey Ribs, and 2nd year player Higgins..possibly Bonk. Could this force Bob's hands, or will he maintain his steely resolve, to stick with his current line-up???...time will tell, let the rumours fly.