tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59074367328379626892024-02-02T10:54:24.215-05:007th Round PickMatthew Bylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13339550211977848349noreply@blogger.comBlogger58125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-15484745626031982432012-05-21T15:06:00.000-04:002012-07-03T14:28:47.596-04:00Early exit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">updated: 7/3/12</span><br />
Detroit Red Wings MVP 2012 - Henrik Zetterberg<br />
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I chose z as the mvp for detroit this year. He didnt have his best year stat wise, slight drop in production but he was the most consistant player all year and his line of filppula and hudler stayed together most of the year. At times he carried our team when we had half of our top talent out due to injury. <br />
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It was a season filled with promise that was cut very short in the playoffs this year after being eliminated in 5 games by the Nashville Predators. Injuries up until the final day of the regular season really seemed to hamper the Wings players after a season which saw them win an NHL record 23 consecutive home games. We saw the breakout year that everyone has been anticipating, of Valtteri Filppula (23G, 66 pts), Hudler had himself a bounce back year and likely earned himself a pay increase albeit as a UFA. Bertuzzi played solid and earned himself a contract extension as teams grandpa for the next 2 years, the emergence of Gustav Nyquist late in the season was exciting to see. A full season of Nyquist, Helm, Eaves together could be explosive. For the most part it was a good regular season and we fell short in the playoffs but I don't think anyone feels that far off from another long playoff run and maybe another cup so that Lidstrom can go out on top. <br />
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There are a number of interesting free agents about to hit the market that Detroit could really use to bolster their depth and we have the money to do it. The Wings are going to make a strong push for Zach Parise and Ryan Sutter, as I'm sure any contending team with the money to shell out will be doing so. I have faith that we could land one of these super stars and this will hopefully make up for the loss of Brad Stuart when we lose him to his family and some lucky California team, and of course the incomprehensible retirement of Nick Lidstrom. We should be letting Hudler go and getting an upgrade along the wing. Our Top line collection of wingers has begun to show their age and some of them are looking like good 3rd liners. But inserting even one new top winger and move maybe Bertuzzi down to 3rd line and we have an entire new look. And of course for all of this to work Nick Lidstrom needs to come back for one more year! How could he pass up a Detroit Winter Classic?<br />
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This will probably be my last post until the next season so take care everyone. Go Wings!<br />
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-Chris<br />
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<br />ChrisHooblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08245683208681137640noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-68591971407801928752012-04-09T09:48:00.001-04:002012-04-09T17:15:56.672-04:001st round predictionsWith the first round of play-offs starting for our wings on Wednesday the 11th, I have a pretty good feeling about this series. It is going to be painfully boring, but with a hard fought series I am saying the wings in 6, all of the games are going to be close one goal games and franzen just getting heated up in time for play-offs I expect him and flip to be doing some decent amount of post season production as well as hudler. I'm hoping we will see a bit of nyquist with dastyuk but not too much, want to be cautious of rookie mistakes against other first lines. Round one is about to start for hopefully the wings will come out on top!Billy Bylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09686178026712466412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-64031108467173542422012-03-28T15:34:00.004-04:002012-03-28T15:41:48.573-04:00Playoffs Are ComingHere is an interesting video about the final stretch into the playoffs for the west.<br /><br /><br /><object id="embed" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" width="640" height="383"><param name="movie" value="http://nhl.cdn.neulion.net/u/videocenter/embed.swf"><param name="quality" value="high"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><param name="flashVars" value="catid=53&id=168273&server=http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/&pageurl=http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/&nlwa=http://app2.neulion.com/videocenter/nhl/"><embed name="embed" pluginspage="http://www.adobe.com/go/getflashplayer" src="http://nhl.cdn.neulion.net/u/videocenter/embed.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" quality="high" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" flashvars="catid=53&id=168273&server=http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/&pageurl=http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/&nlwa=http://app2.neulion.com/videocenter/nhl/" width="640" height="383"></embed></object><br /><br /><br />And here's a video to get you excited for the Red Wings making the playoffs for 21 consecutive seasons! The playoffs begin April 11th.<br /><br /><br /><object id="embed" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" width="640" height="383"><param name="movie" value="http://nhl.cdn.neulion.net/u/videocenter/embed.swf"><param name="quality" value="high"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><param name="flashVars" value="catid=0&id=166165&server=http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/&pageurl=http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/&nlwa=http://app2.neulion.com/videocenter/nhl/"><embed name="embed" pluginspage="http://www.adobe.com/go/getflashplayer" src="http://nhl.cdn.neulion.net/u/videocenter/embed.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" quality="high" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" flashvars="catid=0&id=166165&server=http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/&pageurl=http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/&nlwa=http://app2.neulion.com/videocenter/nhl/" width="640" height="383"></embed></object>ChrisHooblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08245683208681137640noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-81285280138395539562012-03-04T00:53:00.004-05:002012-03-04T01:36:45.237-05:00Trade Deadline<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivEOgHB7ypt3bbCBczp1yIXCW1JzSVUO42i-6pghVf_W72bHlwLbvp2KrdNGvHwOzNZprHxXWXfcA9Y1kzaVykUHWXBU0ip1hxpo8MDcHkifSykXBgu5h1S3bnKD7BbdUZIz0uh10bF0_m/s1600/Quincey.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 290px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivEOgHB7ypt3bbCBczp1yIXCW1JzSVUO42i-6pghVf_W72bHlwLbvp2KrdNGvHwOzNZprHxXWXfcA9Y1kzaVykUHWXBU0ip1hxpo8MDcHkifSykXBgu5h1S3bnKD7BbdUZIz0uh10bF0_m/s320/Quincey.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5715916306163978898" border="0" /></a><br />The trade deadline has come and gone. Not nearly as much movement as many would have liked but with the salary cap there are just so many teams on the bubble of a playoff birth that just arent willing to sell.<br /><br />I don't think that many people are surprised <a href="http://www.nhl.com/ice/player.htm?id=8470041">Rick Nash</a> wasn't released from Columbus due to the simple fact that no contender could possibly part with what Scott Howson wanted for Nash 2 months away from the playoffs. That's not to say that he was wrong for asking so much, I'm sure Nash on the right team could possibly be a 80 point player. Another issue is the length of his contract but I think GM's see the risk is worth the reward. An unhealthy amount of media attention is swarming Nash at the moment because he asked for a trade out of Columbus but you can't blame the guy. He's a top player in the league stuck on a team going right back in rebuild mode after 10 years of being in rebuild mode. Here is Rick Nash's press conference following the trade deadline.<br /><br /><object id="embed" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" height="383" width="640"><param name="movie" value="http://nhl.cdn.neulion.net/u/videocenter/embed.swf"><param name="quality" value="high"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><param name="flashVars" value="catid=0&id=160944&server=http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/&pageurl=http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/&nlwa=http://app2.neulion.com/videocenter/nhl/"><embed name="embed" pluginspage="http://www.adobe.com/go/getflashplayer" src="http://nhl.cdn.neulion.net/u/videocenter/embed.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" quality="high" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" flashvars="catid=0&id=160944&server=http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/&pageurl=http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/&nlwa=http://app2.neulion.com/videocenter/nhl/" height="383" width="640"></embed></object><br /><br />One team that made a number of moves was the Nashville Predators. I believe they went from a team that was going to make the playoffs to a team that could go deep in the playoffs, as long as all the pieces fit. They went out and picked up <a href="http://www.nhl.com/ice/player.htm?id=8470603">Andrei Kostitsyn</a> and <a href="http://www.nhl.com/ice/player.htm?id=8459628">Hal Gill</a> from Montreal and <a href="http://www.nhl.com/ice/player.htm?id=8468700">Paul Gaustad</a> from Buffalo. They picked up Andrei's younger brother Sergei from Montreal before and he has come over and played much better than he did with the Habs so they are hoping Andrei can have some of the same success with the team. He will be LW on the 2nd line and will be given every opportunity to start turning his career around. Hall Gill is another big shut down type defenseman who gives Nashville some depth on defense and added a lot of size. And they just kept getting bigger when they aquired Gaustad to center their 3rd line. This team looks to continue its gritty defensive ways and will be a similar team to St Louis's style. I think both these teams have a chance to go far this year and would make for a great matchup.<br /><br />I'm still not sure what to think of the <a href="http://www.nhl.com/ice/player.htm?id=8474570">Cody Hodgson</a>/ <a href="http://www.nhl.com/ice/player.htm?id=8475178">Zach Kassian</a> trade between Vancouver and Buffalo, as I'm sure most people feel the same. Hodgson is a rookie of the year candidate and was having a great breakout year but many thought he deserved more ice time. Which of course as a Center on the Canucks, it's going to be pretty difficult for a kid to beat out Ryan Kessler or Henrik Sedin for the top 2 lines. So they traded their young center for a RW power forward who likes to throw his body around and can is expected to be a top 6 forward. So time will tell for the Canucks if this trade was better for them or not however I think Hodgson will have an immediate impact on the Buffalo roster.<br /><br />The Wings weren't too active around the deadline as many expected them to be but sometimes less is better and we have one of the top teams in the league with everyone performing at a high level so why blow that up? We did go out and get a defenseman we knew very well in Kyle Quincey and didn't have to give up a roster player to do it. I see Quincey as an insurance if Stuart decides to head to the west coast after the seasons end. The Wings have a solid 8 defensemen going into the playoffs this year and it's looking like we could do some damage this year.<br /><br /><object id="embed" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" height="383" width="640"><param name="movie" value="http://nhl.cdn.neulion.net/u/videocenter/embed.swf"><param name="quality" value="high"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><param name="flashVars" value="hlp=8470724&event=DET537&server=http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/&pageurl=http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/&nlwa=http://app2.neulion.com/videocenter/nhl/"><embed name="embed" pluginspage="http://www.adobe.com/go/getflashplayer" src="http://nhl.cdn.neulion.net/u/videocenter/embed.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" quality="high" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" flashvars="hlp=8470724&event=DET537&server=http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/&pageurl=http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/&nlwa=http://app2.neulion.com/videocenter/nhl/" height="383" width="640"></embed></object>ChrisHooblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08245683208681137640noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-3702243638964955852012-01-31T21:04:00.000-05:002012-01-31T21:04:05.093-05:005 Second Half PredictionsAfter 50 games, the Red Wings are sitting where they have sat for the vast majority of the past 20 years, above 29 other teams. Many competitors have risen and fallen within this time and it was believed the Wings would start to fall as soon as other teams in the Central began to rise.<br />
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Fast forward to 2012 and those pundits were only half right. Chicago, Nashville, and St.Louis have all stepped up to the plate and want a piece of the Central Division Title. Unfortunately for them, the Detroit Red Wings have continued there excellence in staying amongst the Elite teams in the NHL once again.<br />
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<b style="color: red;">5 Second Half Predictions:</b><b></b><br />
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<b>1</b> • <a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/datsyukian-deke.html">Pavel Datsyuk</a> will contend for the Hart Trophy (Top 3). He will also win the Selke and if the Wings go deep, <i>win</i> the Conn Smythe.<br />
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<b>2 </b>• <a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/z.html">Zetterberg</a>, after a slow start, will notch 60 points and reach 20 goals. (His Shooting % is currently 5.9%, you have to believe that isn't going to stick.)<br />
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<b>3 </b>• Ty Conklin will get 7 starts, nearly doubling his 10 in the first 50.<br />
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<b>4</b> • Despite only getting 25 starts, <a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/12/votejimmah.html">Jimmy Howard</a> will tie Martin Brodeurs Wins Record at 48. He currently sits at 30 Wins and needs an 18-7 record to achieve this.<br />
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<b>5</b> • Ken Holland will pull the trigger and bring in a top-six forward at the deadline. Rumors have the Red Wings poking around the Oilers and Ales Hemsky. We'll see.<br />
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<b>Looking back at my <a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/08/predictions.html">predictions</a> for the team at the start of the season:</b><br />
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101 Points<br />
1st in Central<br />
3rd in Conference<br />
(I wish I took a stab at the Wins column at the beginning of the year...<b>)</b><br />
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</b><br />
Currently the Wings are on pace for 110 points on the season.<b> </b>I may have over estimated individual points, but, I underestimated the teams overall points.<br />
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The Red Wings have, to some extent, surprised me a bit. I believed they would be a challenger but I didn't expect them to be sitting at the top of the standings at the All-Star break. It's a pleasant surprise.<br />
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The biggest challenge for the Wings to stay on the top is the competition within the Central. I don't think Chicago will continue there success based on there defensive and goaltending struggles but it's always possible there offense keeps them chugging. I see them finishing in the 4-6 spot. Nashville is Nashville, always good, never great. St.Louis is my biggest fear. They are good up and down the lineup and with the help of Ken Hitchcock, look to push us to the limits for the Central crown. I feel a new rivalry brewing.<br />
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Oh, and then there is <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pm_me-sPyPc&feature=related">Columbus</a>... <br />
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I don't believe we will win the Presidents Trophy with Vancouver picking on the youngin's in the Northeast and Boston and New York dominating the entire Eastern Conference. I do, however, see us sitting in a 1-4 spot at seasons end and having first round home ice advantage.<br />
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Let's get this second half over with and be ready for the real season to begin!Matthew Bylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13339550211977848349noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-89096514464406834662012-01-23T01:12:00.008-05:002012-01-28T00:24:18.374-05:00Power Rankings<h3 class="post-title entry-title"> <a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/11/nhl-power-rankings.html">NHL Power Rankings</a></h3><p>Here are the Power Rankings going into the All Star break.</p><p><br /></p><p><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/det/detroit-red-wings"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/det.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b>1. Detroit</b> - It looks to be breakout years for both Valterri Filppula and Johan Franzen. They are red hot with 17 consecutive home victories and are in the middle of a 7 game win streak. Howard will get some votes for the Vezina at this point...who predicted that?<br /></p><p><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/nyr/new-york-rangers"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/nyr.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b>2. New York Rangers </b>- Here is another goaltender who could take home the Vezina this year, Henrik Lundqvist has been phenomenal. A really solid young defensive core in front of him and are getting offense from all over. Gaborik leads the team with 39 points.<br /></p><p><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/stl/st-louis-blues"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/stl.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b>3. St.Louis</b> - Since Hitchcock took over the Blues have gone from a bubble team to a serious contender, 23-6-7. I would think he is first in line for the Jack Adams Award this year. They are one of the hottest teams in the league right now and making the Central Division a pretty tight race. Elliott just signed a 2 year extension with the Blues after being picked up on waivers for $600,000. He has been a big surprise and Halak has really turned his game around as well.<br /></p><p><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/bos/boston-bruins"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/bos.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b>4. Boston </b>- They just keep on rolling. It seems their entire team is the +- leaders in the league. Tyler Seguin has developed into a very dynamic player and he's tied for first in points on the team at 43. (t. with Patrice Bergeron). They have 7 players above the 30 point mark.<br /></p><p><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/sj/san-jose-sharks"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/san.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b>5. San Jose</b> - The Sharks had a rough start but have gotten things on track as of late with more production coming from Dan Boyle, their powerplay quarterback. Thomas Greiss has been a stellar backup to Niemi and Thornton leads the team with 38 points.<br /></p><p><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/van/vancouver-canucks"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/van.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b>6. Vancouver</b> - Once again both Sedins are near the top of the league in points. Cody Hodgson has made great strides in his first full year with the canucks. They also sport a really nice home and away record.<br /></p><p><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/ott/ottawa-senators"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/ott.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b>7. Ottawa </b>- What a surprise this year. Complete turn around under Wings former ast coach Paul Mclean as the new coach. Spezza with 50 points and Karlsson with 47 leads the team.<br /></p> <div class="post-header"> </div> <b> </b><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/pit/pittsburgh-penguins"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/pit.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b>8. Pittsburgh</b> - Malkin continues to carry Pittsburgh on his back in these dark days of injury, seemingly putting up multiple points every game. Letang has returned which should provide a lot of relief on Geno. Fleury has done his part and Neal has been a nice fit in a contract year.<br /><div style="color: red;"><i><br /><br /></i><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/chi/chicago-blackhawks"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/chi.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">9. Chicago</b><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> - </span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">With Toews and Sharp out of the lineup for an extended period of time could be difficult to overcome. However Chicago has the firepower to remain near the top until their stars return.</span><br /><i style="color: red;"></i><br /><i><br /></i><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/nsh/nashville-predators"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/nsh.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">10. Nashville</b><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> - </span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">They've gone 9-1-0 into the break and once again are being led by Weber, Suter and Rinne. It will be very interesting to see if Nashville can secure all 3 players. Craig Smith has been a nice addition to the lineup. </span><br /><i style="color: red;"></i><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/phi/philadelphia-flyers"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/phi.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">11. Philadelphia</b><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> - </span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> Giroux is 2nd in scoring behind Malkin with 55 points. Pronger is a big loss heading into the playoffs, Van Riemsdyk is missing time with a concussion. 7 players on Philadelphia's roster this year have been diagnosed with concussions.</span><br /><br /><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/ana/anaheim-ducks"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/ana.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">12. Anaheim </b><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">- </span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Bruce Boudreau has finally lit a fire under this team. We'll see if Corey Perry can hit a home run again and send this team into the playoffs. I doubt it. Perry, Getzlaf and Ryan are available for trades.</span><br /><i style="color: red;"></i><br /><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/col/colorado-avalanche"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/col.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">13. Colorado</b><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> - Duchene out has been tough on Colorado but Giguere has taken over for a struggling Varlamov. O'Reilly leads the team in scoring and they remain in the playoff picture.</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"></span><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/fla/florida-panthers"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/fla.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">14. Florida </b><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">- The Panthers seem to be drying up. Their record the past 10 games is at 3-3-4 and Fleischmann hasnt put up more than a handful of points in a month. They just got Theodore back, hopefully that helps them keep their playoff hopes alive.</span><br /><br /><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/cgy/calgary-flames"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/cgy.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">15. Calgary </b><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">- </span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">The Flames have to make a push here in the last half of the season in order to make the playoffs. We'll see if Mike Camalleri can live up to that hefty contract. He should do well playing alongside Jarome Iginla. Iginla leads the team with 39 points.</span><br /><br /><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/nj/new-jersey-devils"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/njd.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">16. New Jersey</b><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> - Brodeur has been a bit shakey in what could be his final season but New Jersey has been competitive with a healthy Parise in the lineup, along with some solid seasons by Ilya Kovalchuk, Patrik Elias and a great rookie campaign for Adam Henrique. He will get some nods for the Calder while Nugent-Hopkins remains out.</span><br /><br /></div><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/wsh/washington-capitals"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/was.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">17. </span><b>Washington</b> - Ovechkin has not been very Ovechkin like, often being caught making lazy mistakes and hasn't really shown up offensively as we are used to, however he is 2nd on the team in scoring behind Nicklas Backstrom. Semin has underperformed once again and I expect a trade involving him in the works.<br /><i style="color: red;"></i><br /><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/nyi/new-york-islanders"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/nyi.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b>18. New York Islanders</b> - The top line of Moulson-Tavares-Parenteau has been dynamite and contributed 50% of the Islanders goals this season. Nabakov has done well for them as of late as they seem to be catching fire to make a playoff push.<br /><br /><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/la/los-angeles-kings"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/los.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b>19. Los </b><b>Angeles</b> - Since Daryl Suter took over LA has been playing better hockey but it is still going to need to be better in order to make the playoffs. Many expected LA to be not just a playoff lock but a contender which certainly has not panned out so far. Mike Richards has underproduced to this point and they will need a big turn around from him and for Quick to continue playing stellar hockey in order to get this team into the playoffs.<br /><br /><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/tor/toronto-maple-leafs"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/tor.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b>20. Toronto</b> - This team has a pretty decent record so far and has a shot at making the playoffs for the first time since 2004. What a year by Kessel and Lupul with 51 and 52 points respectively. Look for Toronto to spend at the trade deadline.<br /><br /><i style="color: red;"></i><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/mtl/montreal-canadiens"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/mon.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b>21. Montreal </b>- A lot of turmoil in Montreal lately as Mike Camalleri is traded to the Calgary Flames for Rene Bourque because he described the Canadiens to the media as a team with a losing mentality. He was traded the next day. With just about every player underperforming you have to think Montreal is in some trouble this year. Off season pickup Erik Cole currently leads the team in points with 39.<br /><br /><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/min/minnesota-wild"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/min.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b>22. Minnesota</b> - The Wild had a great start to the season and gave Minnesota a lot of hope and excitement for the season and are still hanging in there but with a 3-6-1 record in their last 10 they will need to turn that around quick in a tight western conference. They have had a solid goaltending tandem of Backstrom and Harding fighting for the number 1 job.<br /><br /><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/wpg/winnipeg-jets"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/wpg.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b>23. Winnipeg </b>- The Jets are performing to about what we expected and are beginning to fall out of the playoff race. Enstrom's return has helped them as they await the return of Byfuglien. They are receiving scoring throughout the lineup with 14 players in double digits however they lack a real point producer as Blake Wheeler leads the team with 33 points. Ouch.<br /><br /><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/dal/dallas-stars"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/dal.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b>24. Dallas</b> - Dallas (like Minnesota) had a really great start to the season and has sense been spiraling down the western confrence. Injuries to Lehtonen, Goligoski and surgery to Jamie Benn has certainly been hurting them. After the All Star break they should have a rested roster and try to make a push at making the playoffs for the first time in 3 years.<br /><i style="color: red;"></i><br /><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/tb/tampa-bay-lightning"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/tam.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b>25. Tampa Bay</b> - Tampa was the surprise team last year but they weren't able to keep it up this year mostly for the lack of a goaltender. Roloson has really fallen off the map and Garon has not been able to take over the number 1 job so Yzerman will be shopping for a goaltender very soon. Stamkos, St Louis and Lecavalier are all having great years once again.<br /><i style="color: red;"></i><br /><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/phx/phoenix-coyotes"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/pho.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b>26. Phoenix</b> - With the loss of Bryzgalov in the off season many expected this team to completely drop out of the playoff picture however once again Phoenix has shown its resiliency and remains in the hunt for that 8th and final slot in the west. Smith has been a spectacular addition, Yandle continues to progress and Vrbata is having a great season on the top line.<br /><br /><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/car/carolina-hurricanes"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/car.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b>27. Carolina</b> - The Hurricanes sit last in the east and have just been atrocious on the road going 5-13-6. They will be hard pressed to make the playoffs and many expect C Tuomo Ruutu to be on the trading block.<br /><br /><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/buf/buffalo-sabres"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/buf.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b>28. Buffalo</b> - A lot of disappointment this year with the Sabres. New Owner Peggula did a lot of spending in the offseason and seemed to make a few upgrades to push a team that was a playoff bubble to at least a lock for the playoffs and they have certainly misfired on that one. Leino's contract is going to just continue to be a tough one to swallow for years to come.<br /><br /><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/edm/edmonton-oilers"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/edm.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b>29. Edmonton</b> - The youngsters are starting to show some dangerous potential out there but still are not quite there. Injuries have slowed them a bit this year. Jordan Eberle leads the team with 45 points in his 2nd full season and has been selected for the All Star game.<br /><i style="color: red;"></i><br /><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/cbj/columbus-blue-jackets"><img alt="" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/cls.gif" width="50" border="0" height="50" /></a><br /><b>30. Columbus </b>- So much promise after all the big additions during the offseason and it has really gone wrong for Columbus once again. They have already announced Steve Mason will not be brought back next year, that should tell you just how bad he has been this year. Expect big big changes to Columbus come trade deadline and off season, this franchise is in a lot of trouble at this point in time.<br /><br /><i style="color: red;"></i>ChrisHooblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08245683208681137640noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-82779906578702807722012-01-20T16:36:00.003-05:002012-01-20T16:46:12.269-05:0015 Consecutive Home Victories<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPqqicK9IaRmmaMyrrR27Re2oJf2uViu6CYWO5hchDkG-lnO-7d3FCIP6t3gYBUa1xRogpfrcS6-8mo3ujSZUoPZAdDemVb2ztYzgQL1IupAtVZscjZ6jFGgFVDQnt9nwKbIpDnJFIUemm/s1600/Octopus.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPqqicK9IaRmmaMyrrR27Re2oJf2uViu6CYWO5hchDkG-lnO-7d3FCIP6t3gYBUa1xRogpfrcS6-8mo3ujSZUoPZAdDemVb2ztYzgQL1IupAtVZscjZ6jFGgFVDQnt9nwKbIpDnJFIUemm/s320/Octopus.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5699831450852102770" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Hello world, it's been awhile. This octopus is in honor of the 15 consecutive home victories (passing the Red Wings previous record of 14, back in 1965) the Red Wings achieved on Jan 16th 2012 against the Buffalo Sabres. I was lucky enough to be at the Joe when they chased Ryan Miller in his hometown putting up 5 goals before the 30 minute mark. I didn't have an octopus to throw on the ice but I hoped this would make up for it. And today I can say that yours, mine and our Detroit Red Wings currently are sitting NUMBER 1 in the entire league after defeating Phoenix last night. Let's keep it up!!ChrisHooblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08245683208681137640noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-33955501183921394512012-01-18T00:04:00.000-05:002012-01-18T00:04:44.396-05:00Afrogator<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz9RVI8VAJnI2359EuN69OUDEiZ51Gks9psEBVuNmbEoXbI35MylougoXFV2NuobZgp-zUd2RPDK1na-uv2SvXdE8oHF-Ew3wUUAygb_JvSvq_biGOZ2k-h1YaOUMCo2LPUR99yaY7Vl0/s1600/justinabdelkader.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz9RVI8VAJnI2359EuN69OUDEiZ51Gks9psEBVuNmbEoXbI35MylougoXFV2NuobZgp-zUd2RPDK1na-uv2SvXdE8oHF-Ew3wUUAygb_JvSvq_biGOZ2k-h1YaOUMCo2LPUR99yaY7Vl0/s320/justinabdelkader.jpg" width="176" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Justin Abdelkader. I'll keep this short and sweet.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Abby has shown flashes of offensive potential in his college and AHL career. He also has a track record for being clutch when his team needs him most. This can be seen most prominently during the 2007 NCAA Championship game in which Abby scores the game winner late in the game. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>As for his NHL game? He has grown to become an agitating, defensive, bottom liner. Justin Abdelkader seems to be doing less agitating this season which may be a result of his untimely penalties during the San Jose series last season. I'm okay with this as it was incredibly frustrating to watch him take bad penalties at bad times during the most <i>important</i> time of the season.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><b>Current Stats:</b><br />
<br />
GP • 45<br />
G • 5<br />
A • 6<br />
P • 11<br />
<br />
<b>Predictions:</b><br />
<br />
GP • 82<br />
G • 9<br />
A • 12 <br />
<br />
P •21<br />
<br />
I might end up hitting this prediction dead on. #winning <br />
<br />
There may be some untapped "Franzen-like" potential in there somewhere. I'm not completely convinced as I really haven't seen anything offensively to write home about. What I do believe, is there may be a Maltby equal in time. Someone that can play strong 3rd line minutes, shut-down the top lines of other teams, and get inside there heads. Maltby was incredible at drawing penalties, something I haven't seen a whole lot of from Abdelkader and hopefully comes with time.<br />
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Here's to another Maltby.Matthew Bylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13339550211977848349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-11560901110329666242012-01-16T17:15:00.001-05:002012-01-16T17:16:06.929-05:00It's Miller Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFhFkQPCYKF5jnk8euLupdQo3EOgc5cmLsO5Q3b6PYA6T5w5waLJ0DHAEo_tVvKfRQ7_cTSnTef1af4jP_CFU1jF-IIVGorDMxsFL7BUmePX7AQwoJJyx6CIAygULm7FqKFH0b5b8iWVI/s1600/DrewMiller.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFhFkQPCYKF5jnk8euLupdQo3EOgc5cmLsO5Q3b6PYA6T5w5waLJ0DHAEo_tVvKfRQ7_cTSnTef1af4jP_CFU1jF-IIVGorDMxsFL7BUmePX7AQwoJJyx6CIAygULm7FqKFH0b5b8iWVI/s320/DrewMiller.jpg" width="176" /></a></div><br />
Drew Miller came to the Red Wings via Waivers from Tampa Bay during the 09' season. He was averaging around 13-14 minutes and eating up PK time for the Lightning but there was interest in bringing up a Right-Handed shot from within there own prospect pool which forced Miller to be placed on Waivers. It was thought Miller wouldn't last too long as a full-time NHLer at this point.<br />
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Fast forward to the 2011-12 season, Drew Miller has become a mainstay on one of the top rosters in the league.<br />
<br />
Playing on the top line, and some nights carrying it, Miller has shown the hands of Pavel Datsyuk and the speed of Darren Helm. His smarts <i>almost</i> rival that of Nick Lidstroms. He has developed into a bona fide superstar. Miller has truly become one of our many "diamonds in the rough" and fits the bill of "Project player turned Red Wings star".<br />
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Okay that's not exactly how things turned out for Miller, but wouldn't it be wonderful?<br />
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<b>Here are Drew Miller's 2011-12 stats:</b><br />
<br />
GP • 42<br />
G • 7<br />
A • 7<br />
P • 14<br />
<br />
<b>My Predictions:</b><br />
<br />
<br />
GP • 50<br />
G • 8<br />
A • 10<br />
P • 18<br />
<br />
I truly didn't think Miller would solidify a spot in the lineup like he has. Moving above Eaves and sometimes, although rarely, getting ice time in the Top 6. My pace was relatively close, in terms of points to games ratio but it looks like Miller will see 75+ games barring some sort of injury. <br />
<br />
I wasn't exactly happy with the re-signing of Miller during the off-season. Hoping the Wings Brass would give some youngsters a chance or sign a Vet who hasn't won the cup and wants to leave everything out on the ice. When I found out we signed him I started thinking the Wings would expose Miller to Waivers at some point with high number of NHL quality forwards the Wings had.<br />
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Now, more than half way through the season, I've been wrong on both fronts. Not only was I wrong, but I've been extremely happy with the game Miller has brought night in and night out.<br />
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Are there better options on the market? Sure. Are there better options in our own system? Definitely. But Miller brings something not many do, and that's a relatively mistake free defensive game. He's a bottom liner you don't have to be afraid to put out on the ice. When the playoffs roll around, that is exactly what you want and what you need.<br />
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<div style="color: black;"><b>Past Predictions&Portraits:</b></div><div style="color: black;"><a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2012/01/cleary.html">Cleary </a><b><br />
</b></div><div style="color: black;"><a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2012/01/ian-white.html">White </a><b><br />
</b></div><div style="color: black;"><a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2012/01/helm.html">Helm </a><b><br />
</b></div><div style="color: black;"><a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/12/votejimmah.html">Howard</a><b> </b></div><a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/12/flip.html">Filppula</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/z.html">Zetterberg</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/lidstrom.html">Lidstrom</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/kronwalled.html">Kronwall</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/ericon.html">Ericsson</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/datsyukian-deke.html">Datsyuk</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/homer.html">Holmstrom</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/happy.html">Hudler</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/08/franzenstein.html">Franzen</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/08/tuzzi.html">Bertuzzi</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/10/predictions.html">Player Predictions (No portraits, yet!)</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/08/predictions.html">Red Wings Season Prediction</a>Matthew Bylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13339550211977848349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-87242486236627781162012-01-12T13:28:00.000-05:002012-01-12T13:28:05.817-05:00Cleary<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj35-LuOOAPoSM8ksdrZj0N8SPkyGcwMg4X7TiFvoB3_u5vnRztRL4TvxEt-rbJGWb3lzgSjxlL5vReFIYppYuWfFAoRJBqAdYz4_9rFpqJt08T4JaGS4Dj4Nm5o5Cycw-paZOC22Tau0/s1600/DanCleary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj35-LuOOAPoSM8ksdrZj0N8SPkyGcwMg4X7TiFvoB3_u5vnRztRL4TvxEt-rbJGWb3lzgSjxlL5vReFIYppYuWfFAoRJBqAdYz4_9rFpqJt08T4JaGS4Dj4Nm5o5Cycw-paZOC22Tau0/s320/DanCleary.jpg" width="183" /></a></div><br />
Dan Cleary has almost single-handily planted a label within the Detroit Red Wings organization that is thrown around quite often. A label that has ground to stand on with former Wings like Kris Draper and Mikael Samuelsson. The "Always able to get the most out of a Project-Player" label.<br />
<br />
Cleary was the 13th Overall pick in the 1997 Draft and was highly regarded upon entering the league. Unfortunetely, for teams like the Oilers and Blackhawks, they were never able to get the most out of the quickly slipping Newfoundlander. Then Ken Holland came calling. After a quiet first season Cleary broke out, potting 20 Goals and 40 Points and making his doubters pay close attention. <br />
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<b>Dan Cleary's 2011-12 Stats:</b><br />
<br />
<div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">GP • <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">42</span></div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"> G • 10</span></div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"> A • 9</span></div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"> P • 19</span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><b style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">My Pre-Season Predictions:</span></b></span><br />
<br />
<div style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">GP • 70</span></div><div style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">G • 25</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">A • 20<br />
P • 45</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; line-height: 19px;">I think it's fair to say I was a bit optimistic after Cleary had a career year last season. He started off the year extremely slow which may have been due to the always mysterious "Upper-Body Injury" (Correct me if I'm wrong, I believe it was Broken Ribs.) and even though he played through the pain, he <i>looked</i> like he was playing through the pain. Cleary started as a top 6 forward and quickly slipped down the ranks to his current but not cemented 3rd line role. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; line-height: 19px;">I believe Cleary is more fitted for this role and, outside of injuries, I hope he sticks to the grinding and defensive game he is known for. He does have a knack for the net and scores the occasional timely goal, but outside of good puck protection on the boards, he doesn't have the puck-possession and offensive smarts that a true top 6 forward should have at this stage in his career.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; line-height: 19px;"> I love his "Give it All, Leave Nothing on the Ice" game and Cleary elevates himself during the playoffs. He has become an "All-Situations" player and can fill roles in the PK and the PP if needed. Dan Cleary is our swiss army knife and we are glad to have him in the Red and White.</span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/gvOO0snnQOY?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; line-height: 19px;">I missed this game due to my graduation date conveniently landing on the same night. Fortunately I was able to sneak away with my Dad and listen to it in his Michigan-made Van while everyone else was enjoying there graduation and families. Listening to Cleary score over the radio was something else, and as much as I would have enjoyed seeing this happen, visualizing this as it broke out as well as the evening in general left this as one of my top memories as a Red Wing fan.</span></span><br />
<br />
<div style="color: black;"><b>Here is a list of past Predictions&Portraits:</b></div><div style="color: black;"><a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2012/01/ian-white.html">White </a><b><br />
</b></div><div style="color: black;"><a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2012/01/helm.html">Helm </a><b><br />
</b></div><div style="color: black;"><a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/12/votejimmah.html">Howard</a><b> </b></div><a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/12/flip.html">Filppula</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/z.html">Zetterberg</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/lidstrom.html">Lidstrom</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/kronwalled.html">Kronwall</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/ericon.html">Ericsson</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/datsyukian-deke.html">Datsyuk</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/homer.html">Holmstrom</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/happy.html">Hudler</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/08/franzenstein.html">Franzen</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/08/tuzzi.html">Bertuzzi</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/10/predictions.html">Player Predictions (No portraits, yet!)</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/08/predictions.html">Red Wings Season Prediction</a>Matthew Bylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13339550211977848349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-72754884550817818392012-01-11T12:07:00.000-05:002012-01-11T12:07:37.591-05:00Ian White<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM9Nv3lvKV1Bjmrda_0vZVh5GdVtGeAGXTWXTN_mmLpaXWYgPqXuA2nKMNyprjLhYNVqFZIYW3yKIqKm4pS3nmrXWn9WchBUE96ZBeX62uVKwd0CLjgqS3uhGFMI0Pm-cJSBbGKh6pl0c/s1600/IanWhite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM9Nv3lvKV1Bjmrda_0vZVh5GdVtGeAGXTWXTN_mmLpaXWYgPqXuA2nKMNyprjLhYNVqFZIYW3yKIqKm4pS3nmrXWn9WchBUE96ZBeX62uVKwd0CLjgqS3uhGFMI0Pm-cJSBbGKh6pl0c/s320/IanWhite.jpg" width="199" /></a></div>“Who is our second-best player? Ian White.” Why? “Because he’s Nick Lidstrom’s partner.” - Red Wings Players quoted by <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/opinion/2012/01/realignment-woes-potential-cba-circus-30-thoughts.html">Elliotte Friedman</a><br />
<br />
Ian White wasn't the most sought after defenseman last summer, with guys like Ehrhoff and Wisniewski on the market. I would argue he has been the most rewarding though. After being thrown around the league like Sean Avery's sloppy seconds Ian White signed a 2 year deal with our beloved Red Wings. It's a move that, to date, has proved to be rewarding.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Here is a look at Ian White's current stats:</b><br />
<br />
GP • 37<br />
G • 5<br />
A • 15<br />
P • 20<br />
<br />
<b>And for comparisons sake, here are my season predictions: </b><br />
<b></b><br />
GP • 82<br />
G • 8<br />
A • 30<br />
P • 38<b></b><br />
<br />
White has been nothing short of fantastic to start the year, already tying his totals from last year.<b> </b>Deemed a "Rafalski Replacemnt" by many (I was not one as I was convinced Kronwall would fill that void and other guys would step up below) a lot of people were doubting the signing by the Wings. He may not be the offensive dynamo Rafalski was, but White has given a smooth transition in light of Raffy's his retirement. Ian White makes up for Rafalski's high-end offensive game with extremely solid two-way play.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
White is prone to making a few occasional defensive gaffs and the same can be said in the offensive zone when, at times, he wants to do a bit too much with the puck. Overall, the mistakes are few and far between and his positives outweigh his minor negatives sevenfold.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
Ian White is near the top of league in terms of bang for your buck when comparing to the rest of the off-seasons Free Agent signings and could be argued as the best. It makes the Eric$$on signing a bit easier to swallow.<b></b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
Oh, and he has the ability to stop goals with his face.<b></b><br />
<br />
<div style="color: black;"><b>Here is a list of past Predictions&Portraits:</b></div><div style="color: black;"><a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2012/01/helm.html">Helm </a><b><br />
</b></div><div style="color: black;"><a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/12/votejimmah.html">Howard</a><b> </b></div><a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/12/flip.html">Filppula</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/z.html">Zetterberg</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/lidstrom.html">Lidstrom</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/kronwalled.html">Kronwall</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/ericon.html">Ericsson</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/datsyukian-deke.html">Datsyuk</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/homer.html">Holmstrom</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/happy.html">Hudler</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/08/franzenstein.html">Franzen</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/08/tuzzi.html">Bertuzzi</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/10/predictions.html">Player Predictions (No portraits, yet!)</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/08/predictions.html">Red Wings Season Prediction</a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"> </span>Matthew Bylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13339550211977848349noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-55938237359289392522012-01-10T13:52:00.001-05:002012-01-10T13:53:03.768-05:00Mid-Season GradesWe are officially at the half point in the season, 41 games, and sitting tied atop the Central division in a tight race between St.Louis and Chicago. We still have a large amount of cap space to work with at the deadline, but with a team sitting near the top of the league the only question to ask is "Do we really need to add at the cost of our future?" <br />
<br />
<b>Here's a look at our mid-season grades.</b><br />
<br />
<b>Pavel Datsyuk - A - </b>Datsyuk started a bit slow but has been nothing short of spectacular since. We expect nothing less.<br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
<b>Henrik Zetterberg - B - </b>Hasn't put up the kind of numbers and at times looks slower than molasses but he is starting to get up there in the point column which is good to see. He is still contributing and will have a few games where he looks like one of our top two forwards again.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Johan Franzen - B+ - </b>The stats are there, he is on pace for a career high. Franzenstein still loafs on occasion and is more a by-product of Datsyuk than the driving force behind his career high pace.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Valtteri Filppula - A - </b>He looks dynamic. At this point in the season I would say he has been our second best forward. Always back checking and making smart decisions and the points are finally coming around for Flip.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Todd Bertuzzi - C+ - </b>Sometimes he drives the net and makes things happen, sometimes he kills the play in the corner. Sometimes he stands up for his teammates, sometimes he takes another holding penalty. He's a serviceable forward though.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Jiri Hudler - B+ - </b>I've been pleasantly surprised with Hudler's play this season. He seems to be competing relatively hard and has enjoyed a nice streak of 18 points in his last 20 games. Hudler is still having a hard time getting out of Babcock's doghouse though.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Dan Cleary - C+ - </b>He has made a few errors in D-zone coverage that have immediately caused goals against. It's a bit frustrating because he is suppose to be better in his own zone. He also started off slow but has picked it up as the season has gone on.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Darren Helm - B - </b>Hes been okay. The points aren't there but he isn't looked upon for points. He is turning into an elite PKer though.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Justin Abdelkader - C - </b>I haven't seen much from him to get excited. He is pretty much invisible night in and night out. Don't love him, don't hate him.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Drew Miller - B+ - </b>I was hoping the Wings would let him walk at the end of last season. He has proven me wrong and has firmly planted himself as a mainstay in the lineup. High compete level and occasionally shows some offensive instincts.<br />
<br />
<b>Tomas Holmstrom - C - </b>Looks good on the Power Play usually. This will probably be Homer's last year and he looks beat from time to time.<br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
<b>Cory Emmerton - D - </b>I'm just not a huge fan. He fills a spot but shows less than Abby and with youngsters behind him chomping at the bit to get in as well as the eventual return of Eaves, I wouldn't be surprised to lose Cory to Waivers or be a minor piece in a trade.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Nicklas Lidstrom - B+ - </b>He is declining, which I hate to admit. He actually has had himself a few bad games which is unheard of. But still, for the most part, he's been the consistent TPH we have grown to admire.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Ian White - A - </b>What a fantastic (and cheap!) pickup this guy was. It helps to play alongside Nick, but he has looked very steady and has a terrific two-way game.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Nicklas Kronwall - B+ - </b>I'll admit I expected a bit of an increase in offensive production but he has really rounded out his game. He's also started playing safe during the regular season, which is probably due to his past of injuries, that allows him to step up big time in the Playoffs.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Brad Stuart - B - </b>He's Stuart. Gives you what you expect from him on a nightly basis. Rarely makes any errors but isn't as offensively gifted as most of our Dmen. Lots of grit.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Jonathon Eric$$on - C - </b>He still makes obvious bad decisions. Not sure if it's less than we are use to or not...<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Jakub Kindl - B - </b>The kid has been good more often then not but now has to earn his ice time with the emergence of Commodore. The potential to be a top 4 Dman is there.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Mike Commodore - C - </b>Very steady. Sticks up for teammates and doesn't take crap in front of the net. Everything we expected from him. Hopefully he starts seeing a bit more ice time as the season wears on just to get his hockey legs back.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Jimmy Howard - A+ - </b>The past 2 games he has slipped but what can you expect with the amount of ice time Babcock was handing out. Has emerged as a top 5 goaltender this season. Hopefully he keeps it up.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Ty Conklin - D - </b>Really struggled early. Hardly played which forced Babcock into playing Howard so much. He did look good against Chicago the other night though, hopefully thats a positive sign. Still doesn't see the puck well and looses rebounds way too often for an NHL goalie.<b></b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>The Coaching Staff - A - </b>This team is back to where the should be after a couple of seasons of lackluster defensive play and an offensive game that tried to balance that out. Our 5 on 5 play is amongst the best in the league and we rank in the top 5-10 in every major statistical category outside of the PK. <br />
<br />
<b style="color: red;">Awards!</b><br />
<br />
<b>First half MVP:</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwcxn-vfViVNG0VBPLaeG1hEv-0sqSUl1AMhAGWAtzkxfL5ApsZFTvunlRryLpfgR5VgqH2zz8pwvunQRGWChEWpfP68ArBOrYH1TuKsmSfOTXdWVxMM3A-Tke2EidfSMatWzwkrQsxh8/s1600/jimmah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwcxn-vfViVNG0VBPLaeG1hEv-0sqSUl1AMhAGWAtzkxfL5ApsZFTvunlRryLpfgR5VgqH2zz8pwvunQRGWChEWpfP68ArBOrYH1TuKsmSfOTXdWVxMM3A-Tke2EidfSMatWzwkrQsxh8/s320/jimmah.jpg" width="255" /></a></div><br />
<b>Biggest Surprise:</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj-BL-CvlDFYB_bbd2-3fXu3pyZmLWpceHRuo0C7JMtcAnRyRe792vQf37asmrAEFYVoepH6dDpOdxfD69p6vQqM2jElf6FwJ3o6jJmTf9w4jUbA0I2ih8oZMcpuSnIIkGaZL1-uQXvKM/s1600/flip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj-BL-CvlDFYB_bbd2-3fXu3pyZmLWpceHRuo0C7JMtcAnRyRe792vQf37asmrAEFYVoepH6dDpOdxfD69p6vQqM2jElf6FwJ3o6jJmTf9w4jUbA0I2ih8oZMcpuSnIIkGaZL1-uQXvKM/s320/flip.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Biggest Dissapointment:</b><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b>No Picture:</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">Ty Conklin<b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Let's hope for an even better second half and correct those pesky Road woes. We've planted ourselves once again amongst the Elite.<b><br />
</b></div>Matthew Bylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13339550211977848349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-68252187467208210092012-01-06T14:24:00.000-05:002012-01-06T14:24:59.801-05:00Winter Classic<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://mit.zenfs.com/206/2011/09/309360_269392759750317_211686725520921_977840_840573012_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://mit.zenfs.com/206/2011/09/309360_269392759750317_211686725520921_977840_840573012_n.jpg" width="198" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>After an entertaining Winter Classic in Philly there has already been talk amongst the masses that the next Winter Classic will be held in Hockeytown. There are two enormous factors to consider in this game, the NHL marketing equivalent to the Super Bowl. <br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Where is one of the NHL's most important games to draw revenue going to be held? </b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
There seems to be only two logical locations on where this game will be played. The first being Comerica park, owned by Mr.Illitch. Comerica sits in the heart of Detroit and an event here will draw loads of money for the downtown area (hopefully fixing a few things up here and there). Comerica Park would be the obvious choice for Illitch drawing in a nice crowd and a decent amount of money.<br />
<br />
The other choice would be The Big House, they have already played a game there once, and there is approximately <b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 19px;">107,501 </b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 19px;">seats so the largest Winter Classic and it will eclipse all other previous and future Winter Classics. It has also been stated that Michigan has been contacted by the NHL on the possibility of using the Big House for next years Classic.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 19px;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5088/5240144908_663c1f2e2e_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5088/5240144908_663c1f2e2e_z.jpg" width="320" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><b>Is the Winter Classic ready for a Canadian team?</b><br />
<br />
Yes, Toronto is just across the Detroit river, making it easily accessible for our Canadian compadres that are looking to come to Detroit or Ann Arbor. But the main concern is that there already is a game in the Heritage Classic which is set up specifically for the Canadian teams. Why would we not give other teams in the US a chance in the Winter Classic? Say Colorado, or a repeat of the Hawks game in 09'? Toronto's mayor is trying to get a Winter Classic to be held in Toronto saying “We would love to host a game and the league knows it.” But where would it be played at? Seeing that the Sky dome doesn't open during winter, and BMO field only holds around 20,000 there really isn't a lot of revenue to be brought in, in Toronto.<br />
<br />
<b>What do I think will happen?</b><br />
<br />
For my money, I believe the Winter Classic will be held in Ann arbor at The Big House. It will be Detroit vs either Toronto or Boston (both would be nice match-ups) and I predict the wings will win 5-2 with Datsyuk netting 2 goals with 1 assist, one of the goals being of the spectacular variety.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/-eIMGBmKryo?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Billy Bylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09686178026712466412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-77058457253278233642012-01-01T23:03:00.003-05:002012-01-01T23:05:15.624-05:00Helm<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjXvB8T8yVQj0lPZrHKrkaPi02uszqGdyw03HZVItMaS02Q6EI6aNCJZqI7MHueByWevnyy5yucuSAlIfJ_HpWjyqzECQ7zb2a5o57-Mv-lLlvFEBuGlVSTA9OsAtFpP3vK5-F-6HTnbo/s1600/helm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjXvB8T8yVQj0lPZrHKrkaPi02uszqGdyw03HZVItMaS02Q6EI6aNCJZqI7MHueByWevnyy5yucuSAlIfJ_HpWjyqzECQ7zb2a5o57-Mv-lLlvFEBuGlVSTA9OsAtFpP3vK5-F-6HTnbo/s320/helm.jpg" width="187" /></a></div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Darren Helm has chiseled a place in Red Wing fans hearts as an absolute fan-favorite. His blue-collar play has sat well with the masses because he leaves everything on the ice on a nightly basis.</div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">It's not every day you hear of people mentioning a 3rd liner as an untouchable but Helm has become a premiere bottom 6 forward. I have a belief he also has some untapped high-end potential as well, although it may be a long shot he reaches it.</div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Here is a quick look at my Prediction for Helm:</b></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">82 GP<br />
16 G<br />
23 A<br />
39 P</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">Here are his current stats:</span></span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">38 GP<br />
4 G<br />
8 A<br />
12 P</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">It is looking like my prediction was a bit optimistic for Helm. I thought he would start to establish more of an offensive game this season but that doesn't seem to be the case. There are times he shows flashes of high-end puck possession skills. He really knows how to grind down low and occasionally will throw a nifty deke on a defender. That said, he doesn't seem to create a lot on net which is where he needs to go to see an increase in points. </span></span></div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">Helm has become our go-to penalty killer and has really come around defensively while still being a threat on the PK. He also draws more penalties then anyone else on the Wings. His speed is incredibly lethal and if players aren't aware he is on the ice Helmer will catch them sleeping every time. He may not score, but he will keep defenders honest and this is where he draws most of his penalties.</span></span></div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">I hope to see a bit more of an offensive game as time goes on, I really think there is some potential there where previously I was convinced he would be a great 4th liner and serviceable 3rd liner.</span></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/HSr1i4AUnYA?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: black; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">This Kill is one of my top memories as a Red Wings fan which is saying a lot because we have had numerous enjoyable memories these past 20 years.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black;"><b>Here is a list of past Predictions&Portraits:</b></div><div style="color: black;"><a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/12/votejimmah.html">Howard</a><b> </b></div><a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/12/flip.html">Filppula</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/z.html">Zetterberg</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/lidstrom.html">Lidstrom</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/kronwalled.html">Kronwall</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/ericon.html">Ericsson</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/datsyukian-deke.html">Datsyuk</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/homer.html">Holmstrom</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/happy.html">Hudler</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/08/franzenstein.html">Franzen</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/08/tuzzi.html">Bertuzzi</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/10/predictions.html">Player Predictions (No portraits, yet!)</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/08/predictions.html">Red Wings Season Prediction</a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"> </span></div>Matthew Bylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13339550211977848349noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-73740149462080518082011-12-12T19:22:00.005-05:002011-12-12T19:45:27.116-05:00#VOTEJIMMAH<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwcxn-vfViVNG0VBPLaeG1hEv-0sqSUl1AMhAGWAtzkxfL5ApsZFTvunlRryLpfgR5VgqH2zz8pwvunQRGWChEWpfP68ArBOrYH1TuKsmSfOTXdWVxMM3A-Tke2EidfSMatWzwkrQsxh8/s1600/jimmah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwcxn-vfViVNG0VBPLaeG1hEv-0sqSUl1AMhAGWAtzkxfL5ApsZFTvunlRryLpfgR5VgqH2zz8pwvunQRGWChEWpfP68ArBOrYH1TuKsmSfOTXdWVxMM3A-Tke2EidfSMatWzwkrQsxh8/s320/jimmah.jpg" width="255" /></a></div><div style="color: red; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><b>Jimmy Howard</b></div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">Coming into the season I had this feeling Howard was really going to struggle. During preseason he was loosing the puck, not controlling his rebounds, and seemed to be unfocused. Then the season began...</div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">Howard has easily changed my thoughts on him this season. I've always been a big doubter but I can assure you I fully believe Jimmy Howard is not only a capable NHL starting goaltender, but among the top 15. </div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">Goalies seem to be rather inconsistent, sometimes having remarkable seasons and coming back down to earth or even getting lost in obscurity. This is something I can't see happening to Jimmy. He has refined his approach to the position, making himself look huge, playing the puck carrier aggressively and always being squared up. His athleticism seems to have improved as he is making some extremely tough saves which rely on elite reflexes and all this combined has put him into the discussion of top 5 goalies<b> <i>for this young season.</i></b></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><b>Here is what I predicted for Jimmah:</b></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">65 GP<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; line-height: 19px;"><br />
35 W<br />
3 SO</span> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; line-height: 19px;">2.69 GAA<br />
.908 SV% </span></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">Here are his stats to date:</span></b></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">24 GP<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; line-height: 19px;"><br />
17 W<br />
3 SO</span> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; line-height: 19px;">1.85 GAA<br />
.931 SV% </span></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; line-height: 19px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; line-height: 19px;"><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">It's very noticeable my expectations were low. Apparently so were the NHL's. </span></span></span></div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">Let me get this out of the way first, I really do not enjoy anything about the all-star game. It's a boring "game" nobody wants to play hard in at the risk of injury. There is nothing that even remotely resembles defense and Bettman likes to throw the suspension card around if you plan on not attending. It's ugly, it's not enjoyable, and the fan voting is outrageous. </span></span></div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">That said, the NHL gets to pick which players go on the ballot and if that player isn't on it you have to write them in thus making there chances of making it remote.</span></span></div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">Howard was left off the ballot, which at the beginning of the season might have been understandable. But as the season has gone on, Howard has proven himself, only to be left off for 18 other starting goalies. <b>18! </b>There are only 30 starting goalies in the league... Goalies like Halak and Reimer were put on and a goaltender amongst the best statistically was left off. </span></span></div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">For these reasons, if you are frequent reader of Red Wings material, I'm sure you have seen the motion going around of #VOTEJIMMAH. Go to the NHL All-Star voting page and write-in the home-grown talent.</span></span></div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">Spread the word and do your part!</span></span></div><br />
<div style="color: black;"><b>Here is a list of the past Predictions&Portraits:</b></div><a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/12/flip.html">Filppula</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/z.html">Zetterberg</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/lidstrom.html">Lidstrom</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/kronwalled.html">Kronwall</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/ericon.html">Ericsson</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/datsyukian-deke.html">Datsyuk</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/homer.html">Holmstrom</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/happy.html">Hudler</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/08/franzenstein.html">Franzen</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/08/tuzzi.html">Bertuzzi</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/10/predictions.html">Player Predictions (No portraits, yet!)</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/08/predictions.html">Red Wings Season Prediction</a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; line-height: 19px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span></span></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"> </span></b></span> </div>Matthew Bylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13339550211977848349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-35794397875101267852011-12-05T19:27:00.001-05:002011-12-05T20:39:47.441-05:00Flip<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj-BL-CvlDFYB_bbd2-3fXu3pyZmLWpceHRuo0C7JMtcAnRyRe792vQf37asmrAEFYVoepH6dDpOdxfD69p6vQqM2jElf6FwJ3o6jJmTf9w4jUbA0I2ih8oZMcpuSnIIkGaZL1-uQXvKM/s1600/flip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj-BL-CvlDFYB_bbd2-3fXu3pyZmLWpceHRuo0C7JMtcAnRyRe792vQf37asmrAEFYVoepH6dDpOdxfD69p6vQqM2jElf6FwJ3o6jJmTf9w4jUbA0I2ih8oZMcpuSnIIkGaZL1-uQXvKM/s320/flip.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">After last nights game in Colorado, Red Wings fans really felt the impact <a href="http://www.nhl.com/ice/player.htm?id=8470047">Valtterri Filppula</a> has on the game. Flip was injured early and by the end of the game it was noticeable we didn't have a dynamic second line without him on the ice. He has <i>finally </i>grown in to the high-octane forward Wings fans all hoped for. </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">It can be argued he is our second most important forward, only behind Pavel Datsyuk. Val controls the pace in the offensive zone and consistently prevents and breaks up plays in the defensive zone. He's on pace for over 70 points on the year and should, barring serious injury, easily surpass his previous career high of 42 points.</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>At the beginning of the season I predicted this line for Filppula:</b></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">82 GP<br />
17 G<br />
35 A<br />
52 P</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><span style="color: black;">Flips current state line: </span></span></b></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">25 GP</span></div><div style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">8 G</span></div><div style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">13 A</span></div><div style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">21 P </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><span style="color: black;">Looking back, the 82 games was a bit of a stretch... I did expect him to surpass his previous high but I didn't think he would look as good as he has. In my opinion, he has made it quite easy to forgive Zetterberg for his underwhelming production.</span> <span style="color: black;">Now, if we can manage to have them both clicking? Look out NHL.</span></span></div><div style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><span style="color: black;">It sounds like his injury last night wasn't anything serious and there is a real possibility they can get him in the game tomorrow evening. They simply need to modify his skate to make it comfortable on the 1-inch gash he received while being slew-footed by an Avalanche player.</span> </span></div><div style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><span style="color: black;">If Filppula can keep up this pace, potting even 60 points with his stellar two-way play, this will be chalked up as another Holland steal. His cap hit is sitting pretty at 3 million. That's about 3 million less than Zetterberg and 250,000 less than Jonny Eric$$on</span>. </span></div><div style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">Let's just hope he can avoid the injury bug.</span></div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://3.gvt0.com/vi/_eAp4bX7pEM/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/_eAp4bX7pEM&fs=1&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/_eAp4bX7pEM&fs=1&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object></div><div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
<b>Here is a list of the past Predictions&Portraits:</b><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/z.html">Zetterberg</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/lidstrom.html">Lidstrom</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/kronwalled.html">Kronwall</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/ericon.html">Ericsson</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/datsyukian-deke.html">Datsyuk</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/homer.html">Holmstrom</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/09/happy.html">Hudler</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/08/franzenstein.html">Franzen</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/08/tuzzi.html">Bertuzzi</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/10/predictions.html">Player Predictions (No portraits, yet!)</a><br />
<a href="http://7throundpick.blogspot.com/2011/08/predictions.html">Red Wings Season Prediction</a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"> </span> </div>Matthew Bylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13339550211977848349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-86927995577382720322011-11-30T18:31:00.000-05:002011-11-30T18:31:08.496-05:00Game day in the D!Hello readers! It's been a while as I am busy with an 18 credit semester this year but tonight should be a very good game.<br />
<br />
The bolts are going to come out hard after there 3 game win streak was put to and end the other night. Stamkos is, of course, leading Tampa in points and goals and is creeping up on Kessel for the lead in scoring with 9 goals in his past 11 games including a current 3 game goal streak. In addition we have the big man himself, "Captain" Steve Yzerman, who will be in attendance, which should give the Lightning a little inspiration for a win.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://video.redwings.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=884&id=138595&navid=DL%7CDET%7Chome">http://video.redwings.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=884&id=138595&navid=DL|DET|home</a><br />
<br />
Interview with Steve on his return to Hockeytown.<br />
<br />
The Wings are on another 5 game winning streak and hopefully they can keep it going. Fillpula has looked great as well as Kronwall. I have been really impressed by Flips play all year and really hoping he can keep up his pace of production.<br />
<br />
It's going to be a good game tonight, lets keep this streak alive!<br />
<br />
Go get em' boys!Billy Bylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09686178026712466412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-89397652944095382792011-11-27T22:23:00.001-05:002011-11-27T22:23:36.756-05:00Quarter Mark GradesIt looks as if the Wings have righted the ship so to speak and are off to a 5 game winning streak and victorious in 9 of there past 11. Those are Red Wing like numbers.<br />
<br />
There was wide-spread panic after the wings knotted themselves into a 6 game loosing streak early in the season. Many calling for various players heads and hoping Holland would make a trade. This is what separates the men in charge with the media and fans. That calmness, knowing they have a good thing even if things aren't going so well.<br />
<br />
<b>Here are grades after the quarter mark. </b><br />
<br />
<b style="color: red;">A+</b><b> </b><br />
<b>Valterri Filppula</b> - This rating is based more on my honest expectations of Flip. I was amongst the people that thought even though he had the potential to be a 60+ point two-way game changer, he would most likely never hit that ceiling. Well I was wrong. He is dynamic and putting up the points and it's looking more and more like it isn't a fluke.<br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: red;">A</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: red;"></span>Johan Franzen</b> - The leading point getter for the Wings after 22 games. When Franzen is putting forth 100% effort the Wings, more times than not, come out on top. I don't expect him to keep up a PPG production so I'm impressed with what he has accomplished so far.<br />
<br />
<b style="color: red;">A-</b><b> </b><br />
<b>Pavel Datsyuk</b> - He has really come on as of late but struggled to put up points at the start of the season. We expect a higher level of production, one that I have no doubt will be reached. That said, his Defense and puck control have been outstanding as usual.<br />
<br />
<div style="color: red;"><b>B+</b></div><b>Tomas Holmstrom</b> - You know what you are going to get with Holmstrom on the ice. He competes as hard as anyone on the team and although he doesn't have the skating skills other guys do, he still finds a way to get it done. 9 points playing the 4th line is pretty damn good if you ask me.<br />
<br />
<div style="color: red;"><b>B</b></div><b>Drew Miller</b> - He has at times looked <i>really </i>solid and other times just solid. He never really makes mistakes which is what we expect of him. Doesn't hurt having 6 points playing at10 minutes per game.<br />
<br />
<div style="color: red;"><b>B-</b></div><b>Darren Helm - </b>His typical, speedy self. If I wasn't also looking at his stat line, he might be an A, but with only 4 points on the season, I want a little more production from him. After last season I was wondering if we might have something more than a great Bottom 6 guy, maybe I was wrong?<br />
<br />
<div style="color: red;"><b>B-</b></div><b>Justin Abdelkader</b> - I haven't been extremely high on Abby, not that I don't like him, I just don't see much in him. That said, when he was on the top line with Franzen and Datsyuk I thought he fit in perfectly and if it wasn't for a lack of production that game, he might still be playing there. He seems to have taken less dumb penalties as well. I'm okay with that.<br />
<br />
<div style="color: red;"><b>C+</b></div><b>Henrik Zetterberg</b> - His lows have been low (Giveaways against Boston anyone?) but his highs haven't been quite that high. 13 Points in 22 games is not the level of production we expect from Hank.<br />
<br />
<b style="color: red;">C+</b><b> </b><br />
<b>Jiri Hudler</b> - Hudler has had stretches of bad play. But lately I haven't been frustrated by his dumb mistakes and have found myself enjoying his average play. He still passes up prime scoring opportunity but at the same time, I don't see him as an anchor, weighing down the team. I don't think he belongs on the point during the power play though.<br />
<br />
<div style="color: red;"><b>C+</b></div><b>Patrick Eaves</b> - Eaves is having a hard time breaking the roster for whatever reason. Most teams he is a 3rd liner, and that's where h ebelongs. Tough break on the fractured jaw in the Nashville game.<br />
<br />
<b style="color: red;">D+</b><br />
<b>Dan Cleary</b> - He really struggled that first month of the season but the chances are starting to come. I don't expect a consistent 25+ goal scorer but I also don't expect a 15 goal scorer. He is better than that.<br />
<br />
<div style="color: red;"><b>D+</b></div><b>Todd Bertuzzi </b>- He has played his best hockey since returning from injury. Before that, he was playing well below his level. If he keeps up his recent play the grade will rise but for about 75% of the games he has looked downright terrible.<br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: red;">D</span></b><br />
<b>Cory Emmerton -</b> He is a rookie making rookie mistakes. I'm not sure there is room for him on the Red Wings once we are healthy but for now he is a plug. I don't see much potential in him.<br />
<br />
<b>Defense: </b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: red;">A</span></b><br />
<b>Nick Lidstrom</b> - Playing how he should be playing, good production, great defense. Hopefully he can keep this up once he hits the wrong side of 30...<br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: red;">A</span></b><br />
<b>Nik Kronwall</b> - He looks like a 1A/B Defenseman out there. He's simplified his game and it has made him a reliable, elite defender.<br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: red;">A-</span> </b><br />
<b>Ian White</b> - What a pickup. This guy has been nothing short of fantastic and the "protecting-a-goal-with-his-face" shows he is an all-out warrior. Love it.<br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: red;">B- </span></b><br />
<b>Brad Stuart</b> - He really struggled early in the season but has come around to playing that hard-nosed defensive game we have grown to love.<br />
<br />
<div style="color: red;"><b>C+ </b></div><b>Jonathan Ericsson</b> - Still making his regular giveaways and bad penalties but there is a solid defenseman hidden in there somewhere.<br />
<br />
<div style="color: red;"><b>C+</b></div><b>Jakup Kindl</b> - I like the way he plays but I'm worried about his lack of special teams time. He hasn't shown high end ability but looks to be a reliable defender for now. Good outlet pass and smarts.<br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: red;">NA</span></b><br />
<b>Mike Commodore</b> - I just haven't watched enough to have an opinion.<br />
<br />
<b>Goalies: </b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: red;">A+</span></b><br />
<b>Jimmy Howard </b>- Is this a breakout year for the young goaltender entering his prime? He looks incredible at times and rarely lets in that squeaker.<br />
<div style="color: red;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red;"><b>E</b></div><b>Ty Conklin </b>- Not the way he wanted to start the year. He hasn't shown the ability to even give Howard a rest which is something to be worried about come playoff time.<br />
<br />
<b>Prospects:</b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: red;">B+</span></b><b> </b><br />
<b>Brendan Smith</b> - Man does this kid have potential. He does get caught due to jumping up more often then not but he has great vision and speed. The Kronwall comparisons are very accurate.<br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: red;">NA</span></b><br />
<b>Gustav Nyquist </b>- Very little time in the NHL. He has taken the AHL by storm putting up PPG numbers and looking like a constant threat. He's leap-frogged Tomas Tatar in the depth chart.Matthew Bylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13339550211977848349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-5165059604051336132011-11-16T14:53:00.000-05:002011-11-16T14:53:43.227-05:00Protection of GoaltendersThe big debate around the league right now is the "Protection of Goaltenders". This all started earlier this week when Milan Lucic of the Boston Bruins barrelled in on Ryan Miller of the Buffalo Sabres. In case you missed it, here is the video.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/TERA-GY2K1o?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
Now, Lucic managed to get himself a 2 minute penalty out of this ordeal, but it also spurred a meeting with the one and only Brendan Shanahan. Lucic managed to get off relatively scotch free, avoiding any suspension while using the "incidental contact" argument to his advantage.<br />
<br />
Want to know my opinion? Shove it up your ass, Lucic. You could have avoided contact, and if you had to bump into Miller, which I fully believe you didn't, you could have done so without extending your arms through the "Incidental Contact". Because who does that?<br />
<br />
I'm seeing these experts calling for goaltenders to be fair game. Seriously? <br />
<br />
Now I understand there is a level of risk involved with coming out and playing the puck. That risk shouldn't be, by any stretch of the imagination, bracing yourself for a big hit. This risk should be mis-playing the puck or getting pressured into a bad decision by a forechecker. Possibly slipping because what you are wearing on your legs aren't some form fitting shin pads, they are gigantic cushions.<br />
<br />
<div style="color: black;"><b>Let's break this down, from an equipment perspective:</b></div><br />
<b>Goalie Skates </b>- Goalie skates have extremely long blades, the longer the blade, the tougher it is to make sharp turns like you would wearing a nice pair of player skates. They are also covered with a big chunk of plastic for protection. Not ideal for quickly avoiding "Incidental Contact".<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Goalie Pads</b> - I'm not sure I really need to go over the obvious, but if you think these will help a goalie maneuver through traffic while avoiding getting leveled... well you might want to stop reading now as this is a waste of your time. The are also much heavier than you may think.<br />
<br />
<b>Gloves </b>- A goalie doesn't have the ability to fully grab his stick while making a play. This makes playing the puck risky, as accidents will, and do, happen. They also make bracing your body for impact tough as you don't have your fingers free to grab and hold.<br />
<br />
<b>Stick </b>- It's fat, clunky, and made to help stop the puck, not a 220 pound power-forward.<br />
<br />
<b>Helmet </b>- The helmet is by far my biggest issue with the equipment side of things. Goalie helmets aren't strapped in like a player helmet is. You don't click the chinstrap into place, making it hard to pop off when you're hit. I've had it happen to me several times, and it happens in the NHL without goalies being fair game already, but goalie helmets do pop off. They aren't secured like a player helmet is. If a goalie were to be fair game, anytime they would get hit, the chance of there helmet popping off is at least 50%. And if it was me, I would help my helmet come off because the play has to be blown dead when a goalies helmet is not resting on there head.<br />
<br />
Equipment aside, do you really want to see goalies getting injured when there is only maybe 20-25 legitimate starters in the league as is?<br />
<br />
I'm really frustrated with the amount of people that truly believe a goalie should be fair game. Goalies aren't built or trained to brace for hits. The job is already punishing enough with 100mph slapshots flying there way, and players cutting through the crease making life difficult. Players stopping, spraying snow in there face, and the numerous minor hacks and slashes they get while covering the puck. Bodies flying on top of them during scrums.<br />
<br />
The people that do want to see goalies become fair game are just frustrated when a goalie makes a play preventing there team of an offensive chance. Is it really worth upping the risk for maybe 10-15 more goals, league-wide, on the season? Because let me tell you, the amount of injuries, even if it's just one elite netminder, will out weigh the goals for.<br />
<br />
End the debate. Goalies <i>should </i>be protected by the league.Matthew Bylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13339550211977848349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-88930554492476166662011-11-06T20:44:00.000-05:002011-11-06T20:44:53.399-05:00Vezina PredictionGrowing up as a goaltender, the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vezina_Trophy">Vezina Trophy</a> has always been something I have idolized. Seeing Brodeur and Hasek essentially dominate the voting, winning the majority of the trophies while I was growing up. There wasn't much competition with the legends that were playing the game at the time.<br />
<br />
I have also always had my own opinions on certain goalies.<br />
<br />
I hated, absolutely <i>hated</i> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dominik_Ha%C5%A1ek">Dominik Hasek</a>. That "style" where he would throw his body around, rolling across the ice, dropping his stick to retrieve the puck, it all rubbed me the wrong way. I grew up loving the CuJo's, Vanbiesbrouck's, Roy's, Belfour's, and yes, the Brodeur's. One thing I can't knock though is the stats Hasek was able to put up. He clearly deserved the numerous Vezina's he won and found a style that worked for him.<br />
<br />
That's one thing you notice while looking at the list of consistent Vezina winners. <i>Style</i>. From Tim Thomas's extremely aggressive, athletic approach, to Patrick Roy's re-invention of the position into what is now known as the Butterfly. You really don't see many goalies winning the trophy if they don't have something that lets them stand out from the pack. Although it does occasionally happen with guys like Ryan Miller and Miikka Kiprusoff, whom are goalies of a modern build, relying on the butterfly and fast reflex's. I'm a fan of both goalies, I just don't see them winning several Vezinas like The Dominator or Martin Brodeur would<br />
<br />
An important item to take into account while looking at goalies whom have the potential to win the Vezina is team defense. Usually the goalie that wins the trophy has a really solid system in front of them. The Devils relied on there "Trap" for many years. Teams like Boston, Nashville, Montreal, and Phoenix have all been known to rely on stifling defensive zone coverage. I see a lot of teams collapsing in the slot preventing high-scoring chances and this all helps the goalie in obtaining high-end stats.<br />
<br />
<b>That said, my prediction for the Vezina for the 2011-12 season is:</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEpZIwlKojAUZKNZY85eHv83Sjs1IuyXc1NiX5gueGK7IPbObIBcEDu4utLBlHQhtHqjyIvIEvjWnetGg9M23Pd5H-iXZ3NbeYrfnHz5bRKCmox_3BIm86_f7Dnq_e59OByFGwMvspdO4/s1600/Rinne_Vezina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEpZIwlKojAUZKNZY85eHv83Sjs1IuyXc1NiX5gueGK7IPbObIBcEDu4utLBlHQhtHqjyIvIEvjWnetGg9M23Pd5H-iXZ3NbeYrfnHz5bRKCmox_3BIm86_f7Dnq_e59OByFGwMvspdO4/s320/Rinne_Vezina.jpg" width="183" /></a></div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pekka_Rinne">Pekka Rinne</a></span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Rinne has the pleasure of being behind possibly the best defensive scheme in the Western Conference. Enjoying a Norris caliber player in Shea Weber</span> and a steady-as-a-rock Ryan Suter. Both guys 29 other teams would salivate at the opportunity to acquire. The Preds also have a plethora of defensive minded forwards and a seemingly endless prospect pool of high-end defenseman.<br />
<br />
As for Pekka Rinne? Being in the same division as Rinne we go up against his game quite often. He plays to the size of his 6'5'' frame. Coming from that new school, drop down and protect the bottom of the net while relying on speed and reflex realm of goaltending. He is a game changer and he is consistent. It will be interesting to see how Nashville handles the Free Agency of Weber and Suter after agreeing to a 7 year, 7 million per, contract signing by the young franchise goaltender.<br />
<br />
<b>Prediction:</b><br />
<br />
<div style="color: red;">GP - 60<br />
W - 32</div><div style="color: red;">GAA - 2.08</div><div style="color: red;">SV% - .931</div><div style="color: red;">SO - 8</div><br />
Outside of someone pulling off a Tim Thomas like record breaking season I think Rinne should land the trophy with similar numbers to last season. He was recognized by the voters as one of the final three finalists for the Vezina during 2010 which is half the battle. <br />
<br />
<b>Honorable Mentions:</b><br />
<br />
<b>Tim Thomas</b> - Someone who I'm still on the fence with. I love his style of play, his passion for the game, and the fact that he is a Michigan native. I don't like his age and that potential starter waiting in the wings with Rask. That said, if he stays healthy, I wouldn't be surprised if he puts together another top notch season.<br />
<br />
<b>Roberto Luongo</b> - Everyone loves to hate Luongo. I can't blame them, either. He has a knack for falling apart in pressure situations but I really do believe he is a top 10 goalie. He also gets to enjoy a great team in front of him helping to lift some of that pressure.<br />
<br />
<b>Ryan Miller</b> - With the overhaul Pegula has put in place for the Buffalo Sabres, I believe Ryan Miller will once again be near the top of the conversation for the Vezina. Keep an eye on him, if he can once again produce great numbers Miller will definitely get into the minds of voters. It's hard to forget that performance for team USA once upon a time.Matthew Bylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13339550211977848349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-91320393301060150082011-11-03T22:55:00.000-04:002011-11-03T22:55:27.428-04:00The ProblemEveryone wants to know what's wrong with the Red Wings. With each loss adding up to more and more disappointment, everyone is trying to find that specific thing that is holding the Wings back from ending this awful streak. Well, you are <i>all </i>wrong.<br />
<br />
It's not a lack of leadership in the locker room or on the ice.<br />
<br />
It's not any individual from the Red Wings. (HUDLER! BERTUZZI! CONKLIN!?)<br />
<br />
It's not the coaching staff.<br />
<br />
It is... wait for it... <b>5 goaltenders in which will all share the Vezina at season's end.</b><br />
<br />
We have gone up against the best goaltender(s) in the league, 6 times in a row. With those odds, scoring at a pace higher than 1 goal per game would only be luck. Wait, what's that? You need to see some stats to back up my statement?<br />
<br />
We have taken a very respectable 198 shots through the last 6 games. All losses (In case you missed that). That's an average of 33 shots a game. Now subtract 1 of those shots a game which resulted in a goal and that leaves you with 32 saves per game. 32 saves per game on 33 shots is phenomenal.<br />
<br />
At that rate, you will notice the goalies throughout the 6 game span are averaging a <b>Save Percentage of: .969</b><br />
<br />
What the fuck?<br />
<br />
To put this in perspective, Tim Thomas won the Vezina just last season riding on the coattails of a .938 SP%. That being the <i>highest</i> percentage since the stats introduction in 1983.<br />
<br />
Where am I going with this? Well, aside from the fact that Kipper, Harding, Vokun, Mason and Niemi are all going to be Co-Vezina winners for the 2011-12 season? I think if the Wings just keep doing what they are doing, even at the cost of the immediate return (3-5 wins), they should eventually start potting a lot more goals without taking any drastic measures.<br />
<br />
Because lets be honest, there can't be more than 5 Vezina winners this year, right?<br />
<br />
(This article was written with tongue firmly planted in cheek. Sort of.)Matthew Bylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13339550211977848349noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-49921098743333921622011-11-03T18:25:00.000-04:002011-11-03T18:25:57.055-04:00NHL Power Rankings<b> </b><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/pit/pittsburgh-penguins"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/pit.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b> 1. Pittsburgh</b> - To consistently do what they have done with there top players out of the lineup... It's amazing and Bylsma is quickly becoming the top coach in the NHL.<br />
<div style="color: red;"> <i>Last Week:7</i></div><a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/wsh/washington-capitals"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/was.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>2. Washington</b> - The finally lost. Everyone is talking about the argument at the end of there last game between the coach and Ovie. I think you have a bigger problem there than most want to think. You wouldn't catch Lidstrom screaming at Babcock if he wasn't out on the ice in that situation, would you?<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:3</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/chi/chicago-blackhawks"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/chi.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>3. Chicago</b> - Looks like the Kane to center experiment is working.<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:</i><span style="color: red;">12</span><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/tor/toronto-maple-leafs"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/tor.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>4. Toronto</b> - How long can the Leafs honestly hold a spot in the top 15? I keep waiting for them to slip but so far, so good.<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:4</i> <br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/dal/dallas-stars"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/dal.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>5. Dallas</b> - Another gigantic surprise, except I have no doubt at all they will slip up sooner rather then later.<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:8</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/la/los-angeles-kings"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/los.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>6. Los </b><b>Angeles</b> - Doughty is back.<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:14</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/edm/edmonton-oilers"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/edm.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>7. Edmonton</b> - Really? Easily the biggest surprise for me. Defense has been stellar.<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:19</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/phi/philadelphia-flyers"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/phi.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>8. Philadelphia</b> - Don't look now but Jagr is starting to heat up and Giroux is firing on all cylinders but Bryz is struggling to adapt to a city that cares about hockey.<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:5</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/van/vancouver-canucks"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/van.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>9. Vancouver</b> - They are turning around there slow start, as we expected. Kesler needs to step it up a notch.<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:15</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/phx/phoenix-coyotes"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/pho.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>10. Phoenix</b> - 3 straight wins, including a tough 1-0 victory of Dallas.<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:18</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/min/minnesota-wild"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/min.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>11. Minnesota</b> - If Harding can play like he has played the past 2 games against the Wings, the Wild will have one of the best 1-2 punch's.<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:20</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/col/colorado-avalanche"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/col.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>12. Colorado</b> - Slipping from there hot start. To be expected.<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:2</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/fla/florida-panthers"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/fla.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>13. Florida </b>- Dave Tallon "Frankensteined" the roster during the off-season and it's working... for now.<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:13</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/sj/san-jose-sharks"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/san.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>14. San Jose</b> - They were the best team the Red Wings faced in the young season. Considering we went up against a Washington team that knocked us into a 5 game loosing streak and an always challenging Vancouver squad, that's saying something.<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:26</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/buf/buffalo-sabres"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/buf.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>15. Buffalo</b> - They are up and down but things will start to click once Miller gets rolling.<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:9</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/det/detroit-red-wings"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/det.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>16. Detroit</b> - Up and down. This roller coaster had a very high climb followed by an equally low drop but are they still dropping?<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:1</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/ott/ottawa-senators"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/ott.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>17. Ottawa </b>- They are staying in the thick of it heading into November. 1 month down.<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:30</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/car/carolina-hurricanes"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/car.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>18. Carolina</b> - Staal is really struggling out the gates.<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:16</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/nsh/nashville-predators"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/nsh.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>19. Nashville</b> - Locking up Rinne long term is good for a team that can afford it, but with an internal cap and equally, if not more, important players looking for a big pay day, it could prove to be a deadly mistake.<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:17</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/tb/tampa-bay-lightning"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/tam.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>20. Tampa Bay</b> - Vincent Lecavlier has gotten off to a decent start. One of the good guys I always enjoying rooting for.<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:22</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/ana/anaheim-ducks"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/ana.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>21. Anaheim </b>- Selanne is a machine.<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:11</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/nyr/new-york-rangers"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/nyr.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>22. New York Rangers </b>- Well, at least the won the Brad Richards sweepstakes...<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:25</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/mtl/montreal-canadiens"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/mon.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>23. Montreal </b>- Carey Price has turned the Habs season around in a hurry.<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:24</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/stl/st-louis-blues"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/stl.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>24. St.Louis</b> - Sitting in the bottom half of the league, where they will finish the season.<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:23</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/nj/new-jersey-devils"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/njd.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>25. New Jersey</b> - I've always had a soft spot for the Devils and it saddens me to see them struggle. Hopefully they give us Parise at the deadline though, that will make up for it.<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:6</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/cgy/calgary-flames"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/cgy.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>26. Calgary </b>- Fail for Nail?<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:27</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/wpg/winnipeg-jets"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/wpg.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>27. Winnipeg </b>- I will be incredibly surprised if they don't finish the year in the bottom 5.<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:29</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/bos/boston-bruins"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/bos.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>28. Boston </b>- Wow.<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:21</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/nyi/new-york-islanders"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/nyi.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>29. New York Islanders</b> - They have Tavares, damnit!<br />
<i style="color: red;">Last Week:9</i><br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/team/_/name/cbj/columbus-blue-jackets"><img alt="" border="0" height="50" src="http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/nhl/sml/trans/cls.gif" width="50" /></a><br />
<b>30. Columbus </b>- They beat the Red Wings.<br />
<div style="color: red;"><i>Last Week:28</i></div>Matthew Bylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13339550211977848349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-40354600120684741272011-11-03T13:36:00.000-04:002011-11-03T13:36:37.946-04:00Consistently IncosistentThe Red Wings kicked off the season with 5 straight wins. It was reason to be excited as we were all happy to see the Red Wings we have grown use to over the years show up to start the season. Then we follow that up with 5 straight losses...<br />
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<b>Blame: </b>Who can we blame for the struggles? It can't be <b>Conklin</b>, even though he roughed through the first two losses, he hasn't played in the last three. <b>Hudler</b>? He hasn't put up a point since the 4th game of the year. Still passing up opportunities to shoot. We sat him last game though and still lost... <b>Bertuzzi</b>? Big Bert has struggled mightily, picking up loads of dumb penalties. But your PK hasn't been awful and he isn't supposed to be the driving force to our offense...<br />
<br />
Considering we have only lit the lamp a total of 5 times in 5 games makes me want to look at the offense. Our defense has pulled together a bit the last couple of games but our forwards, even though they are getting opportunities, just aren't able to put it in the back of the net.<br />
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Is it a leadership problem? A coaching problem? Are we finally too old to hang with the younger legs of the NHL?<br />
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I'm leaning towards none of the above, at least being a main point for the problems. I'm sure you can point to several things combined that might add up, but I believe we are doing things right. It's a bad streak of games where we only played maybe 2 bad games out of 5. We deserved a win in 2 and 1 could have been a coin flip. This is called...<br />
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<b>Parity</b><br />
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The Red Wings are still a great team and a cup contender. In 3 months we will hardly remember this bad streak and at the end of the day, be glad the struggles are happening at this point in the season and not in May. We are loosing the close games, the ones we <i>need </i><b> </b>to win. The players and coaches need to take from this what they can and translate it into a winning to when the time matters.<br />
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<b>Tonight's game:</b><br />
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Detroit VS. Calgary<br />
7:30 pm<br />
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The Flames are where we expected them to be, straddling that line of .500. The Red Wings are not. This is a great game for the Red Wings to get back to there winning ways so we can see some more of Gustav Nyquist. Commodore is in for Kindle and Eaves is out with a sore back.<br />
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<b>Prediction:</b><br />
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I'm going to predict a win at a score of 5-1 for Detroit. They have been getting there chances, just gone up against some hot goaltending.Matthew Bylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13339550211977848349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-1027485050065991012011-10-27T00:51:00.000-04:002011-10-27T00:51:23.907-04:00Fake Henrik Zetterberg<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://25.media.tumblr.com/avatar_0f0608a77ed5_128.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="http://25.media.tumblr.com/avatar_0f0608a77ed5_128.png" border="0" src="http://25.media.tumblr.com/avatar_0f0608a77ed5_128.png" /> </a></div><br />
For those of you who missed today's first episode in the new season of Fake Henrik Zetterberg, go take a gander!<br />
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<a href="http://fakehenrikzetterberg.com/">Fake Henrik Zetterberg</a><br />
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If you aren't aware as to what this is, in a nutshell it's a Web Series that revolves around Zetterberg. He is played by a man that looks eerily similar too him and it places him in New York at a fancy new 9 to 5 job. The minute long videos they created in the past were always good for a laugh and Red Wing fans should love what they watch. I've been a fan for a while and am excited to see what the big city holds for (Fake) Henrik Zetterberg.<br />
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What are you waiting for? Go take a look!Matthew Bylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13339550211977848349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5907436732837962689.post-8094873190173032952011-10-25T22:03:00.002-04:002011-10-25T22:04:06.296-04:00Post Game Report: Game 7<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKtegs3vzu5ymuMDKaUs7FNUctUHMgVW81TfK0pABrACYCDqILqF5A8faFQyY8PACVX1aPcAon6f3Eq-05qSOJPoMtVSwKXqt_T57gsmD6cLrMgsWTEhqsNsrg4mbrOcrPVFFyIg1B88Q/s1600/pgr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="73" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKtegs3vzu5ymuMDKaUs7FNUctUHMgVW81TfK0pABrACYCDqILqF5A8faFQyY8PACVX1aPcAon6f3Eq-05qSOJPoMtVSwKXqt_T57gsmD6cLrMgsWTEhqsNsrg4mbrOcrPVFFyIg1B88Q/s320/pgr.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"></span><br />
<div style="color: red; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 19px;"><b><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">10/25/11: Det 1 @ Cbj 4</span></b></b></span></div><div style="color: red; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><b>Game7</b></span></div><div style="color: red; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: center;"></div>The second of the year against Columbus and one that is easily forgettable. A week ago I was loving the Red Wings new defense-first mentality. After two straight loses, it looks like things have changed.<br />
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The Wings have allowed 13 goals and scored 2 between this game and Washington's and our top guns are pressing but not putting up the points we have become accustomed too. Conklin can be a part of the blame as he has struggled mightly, but there is more to go around. Amongst the numerous things the Wings need to get better at, there passing is off, the defensive zone coverage is spotty, and the offensive pressure is at times, weak. This is what we use the regular season for though, learn from these mistakes.<br />
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I will say, at times, we were threatening. I think all 4 lines at one point or another had a solid scoring chance but just weren't able to put it in the back of the net. The Franzen - Flip - Hudler line struggled a bit, especially going up against Nash's line. But there are positives you can take from this game as well. Overall, we have some work to do, but that should be expected so early in the season.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI0Pwp5fDLxrs3_GtZJP7OwEyRW_9FCWIK8enTciVdxt47jpUL5mYwnf31GxcI00aESmRAypH402LvciWekzaIcPYcEXtqxdmAAFPIPrkbB24ubzrIl4n2xCmbpCmP_LROUaB8zzihOiE/s1600/3goats.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="73" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI0Pwp5fDLxrs3_GtZJP7OwEyRW_9FCWIK8enTciVdxt47jpUL5mYwnf31GxcI00aESmRAypH402LvciWekzaIcPYcEXtqxdmAAFPIPrkbB24ubzrIl4n2xCmbpCmP_LROUaB8zzihOiE/s320/3goats.gif" width="320" /></a></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;"><br />
</span></b></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;"><b>1. Ty Conklin </b>- Back to back brutal performances. He is looking more like the goaltender who struggled in St.Louis than the more than capable goaltender who followed the Wings to the finals in 09. Is this something to start worrying about or is it just a bump in the road?</span></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;"><b>2. Todd Bertuzzzzzzi - </b>Big Bert had a rough night. Including but not limited to a bad penalty late in the game. He looked to be coasting and making many bad passes. This is something we have come to expect from Bertuzzi. His high's can be incredibly high and his low's can be incredibly low. </span></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;"><b>3. Henrik Zetterberg - </b>It's really not that he played <i>that </i>bad of a game as it is his overall performance on the season. Incredibly underwhelming. I know he will pull it together, and probably soon, but it's something worth noting. </span></div>Matthew Bylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13339550211977848349noreply@blogger.com1