Oh no Canada! USA wins 5-3
USA! USA! USA! USA! USA! USA! USA! USA!
Oh Yes…USA 5, Canada 3!
One night shy of the 30th anniversary of the Miracle on Ice, Team USA again took to the ice and came away with a stunning victory against highly-favored opponent. This time, the team wearing the red jerseys who were supposed to win the game was Canada…not the Soviet Union. And it wasn’t played in front of a highly supportive home crowd as was in case in Lake Placid, NY in 1980…this one was in Vancouver, BC.
USA's Jamie Langenbrunner celebrates his third period goal against Canada (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Scott Gardner)
To listen to all the pundits, this wasn’t supposed to happen. Team Canada was stacked…the preliminary rounds were merely a necessary formality to the real games scheduled for the second week of the Olympic games. But something has happened so far on the way to the Canadian’s gold medal coronation…instead of taking all three Group A games in easy fashion, they have actually only won one time in regulation. They took care of Norway 8-0 in the first game, but then required a shootout to defeat the Swiss 3-2.
Now…this.
tsk..tsk…tsk
Now, obviously they can still win the gold…they’ve certainly got the talent. But the highly favored Candians are going to have to play one more game then they had expected to…a play-in game Tuesday. USA get’s to sit and watch as they wound up winning Group A with all 9 possible points, outscoring their opposition 14-5.
Pending the Finland – Sweden game later tonight, they are so far the only team to win all three group games in regulation.
Ya now…I was chatting with my favorite Sabres fans Joyel over at TJ’s Sunday night about Ryan Miller. I told her that every time I watch Buffalo play I come down with a serious case of goalie envy. Of course, for the past week I’ve been able to enjoy watching him perform his magic between the pipes for my team…Team USA!
And on this winning evening, Miller was again the man as he and his American teammates downed the mighty Canadians, turning aside 42 of 45 shots in the win…team USA got away 23. Marty Brodeur stopped 18 of the 22 he faced.
Brian Rafalski scored twice for Team USA, both in the second period. Chris Drury and Jamie Langenbrunner also got one past Brodeur. Ryan Kesler, a Vancouver Canuck, iced it with an empty-netter with 45 seconds remaining in the third period.
“We know we can beat anybody now”, Rafalski said afterwards.
Eric Staal, Dany Heatly and Sidney Crosby scored Canada’s goals.
Belkin to Cough Up $2 Million
In case you missed this, the AJC’s Kristi E. Swartz reported last Friday that Steve Belkin has been ordered by the court to pony up $2 million by Thursday…or he’ll be at rick of losing his stake as part owner of the Thrashers, Hawks and Philips Arena.
According to Belkin’s attorney, he will indeed come up with the money by the date set.
The payment is part of the $25.8 million owed to remain in the partnership according to the courts ruling last year, as Swartz tells us…
To stay in the group as a minority owner, Belkin is required to pay his partners $25.8 million, according to court documents. That represents his 30 percent share of so-called capital or cash calls made during litigation.
Belkin filed his notice to appeal the judge’s decision last fall. At the time, he also asked the judge to stay his decision pending the appeal.
The judge earlier this month asked Belkin to put up $2 million, which he must do by Thursday. This basically buys Belkin time; no action can be taken on the judge’s order if Belkin pays the money.
The case likely won’t be heard at the Maryland Court of Special Appeals in Annapolis until the summer, said attorney Steven Estep, who is representing Atlanta-based owner Michael Gearon and Washington, D.C.-based Spirit part-owners Bruce Levenson and Ed Peskowitz.
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134 comments Add your comment
Andrew
February 22nd, 2010
12:48 am
first
Hockey Biltong
February 22nd, 2010
1:02 am
That was one helluva game. Glad we made the trip to TJ’s to enjoy it with y’all!!!!
August
February 22nd, 2010
1:09 am
Didn’t they beat the Swiss 3-2?
Tony C.
February 22nd, 2010
1:12 am
Is it “Miller Time” now IOC/IIHF???
IMO he deserved the first and second stars… Anyone watching this game could tell the guys in the white sweaters were “playing over their head(s)”;but like so many hockey games come down to, the team that wanted it more came away with the ‘W’.
Huge win for this team and for Team USA hockey in the future…. Canada simply didn’t get the job done-even with Miller’s heroics there were far too many opportunities that Canada couldn’t (or wouldn’t) take advantage of-case in point the back-to-back PPs they had at the end of the 3rd. Our guys were dead, legs heavy as sin but somehow, through an awesome combination of desire, luck and discipline our boys were able to get that crucial clear when it was most desperately needed.
I think Canada got a little too confident after getting it back to within one; who wouldn’t? It seemed like they played on our end of the rink exclusively for the majority of the second half of the game. -Go ahead and lie to me and tell me you felt that the game was salted away at ANY point up until Kessler’s hustle got that ENG. I loved the heart and dedication shown by Team USA-it surely didn’t feel like a “preliminary” did it?
Although he didn’t receive any fanfare during the game, #88 white really stood out to me, he was everywhere, and it seemed like Wilson had very un-Wilson like confidence in a kid, I mean Kane is what, 20?, 21? I don’t know if he showed up on the scoresheet, but I came away very impressed with his play.
Big win, and I hope we can see our boys do it some more.
on a side note, perhaps a bit mean-spirited, but I bet you there’s an incredible spike in domestic violence tonight throughout Canada as a whole if you go against same-date statistics from the past four years… Just go read what our cousins to the north have to say on tsn’s boards for example….
World Be Free
February 22nd, 2010
5:36 am
I still say the problem with Canada is they have too many stars and no role players. Stars are used to playing alot every night. I think some of these guys cannot transition smoothly into playing less.
One proud Sabres fan this morning. Let’s hope he can keep it going. Shades of Hasek last night. Hasek was SO good, he’d get into the heads of opposing teams. We will see.
If we do nothing else in this Olympics, at least we beat Canada.
World Be Free
February 22nd, 2010
6:24 am
Do you know what “Sabre Luck” is?
Miller will lead the USA to gold and the Sabres will lose in the first round of the playoffs (or not make it at all)
Mr. Heat Miser
February 22nd, 2010
7:42 am
Ryan Milla da Team Canada Killa
World Be Free
February 22nd, 2010
7:45 am
How stupid does NBC look now?
They should never be allowed to broadcast the Olympics again
Zoomo
February 22nd, 2010
7:46 am
That was as good as a game 7 Stanley Cup Finals! What a fun game to watch. Patrick Kane was insane. What player. Dustin Brown was another one of the unsung heroes.
Lots of old NJ Devils mojo – Rafalski, Langenbruner, Parise…but not Broduer.
DWTOO
February 22nd, 2010
8:00 am
Just an awesome game, especially coming on the heels of the 30th anniversary of the 1980 win over the Soviets. And Borduer did not look sharp. Anyone notice his stick is made in the US? Yeah, it was stamped “USA”. The crowd at Firebird found this quite amusing.
Now we have to keep up the momentum.
AGAIN!
rob
February 22nd, 2010
8:06 am
Kane, Brown, and Drury all had amazing games…. expected it out of Kane and Brown, but it was good to see Drury out there playing hard and in crucial moments…. I hope it continues for him outside the olympics because I like his style of play. Great team effort there were bodies everywhere, both teams went after each other hard. Great to see such intensity, makes me even more ready for the playoffs this year!!! Hope some of the guys don’t have a letdown coming from the olympics back to the “job”.
BG33Brown
February 22nd, 2010
8:17 am
Wow….check out the medal round. USA, Finland, Swizt, and Czech up top. USA got the #1 Seed!!!
Canada, Russia, Sweeden, and Slovkia on the bottom. Those are going to be the most epic quarterfinals ever.
BG33Brown
February 22nd, 2010
8:17 am
http://www.vancouver2010.com/olympic-hockey/schedule-and-results/men_ihm400000vm_playoff-dE.html
Here’s the link.
DWTOO
February 22nd, 2010
8:23 am
Be sure to peruse the TSN website. The comments range from the hilarious to just ludicous (need a spell checker). They all think they outplayed us and would win 9/10. Wake up and smell the coffee – you guys got whipped!
Bill – was Eccelstone present? Where were his rooting interests? We were at Firebird’s and it was a very partisan US crowd.
EA
February 22nd, 2010
8:34 am
Huge win! Huge smile on my face last night! It makes one very thankful we have a hockey team in Atlanta. Without a doubt the most exciting sport in the world. As the Thrashers return this week to practice, I hope they are well supported in their “march to the playoffs”. The USA has accomplished more than was expected. Let’s hope the Thrashers can do the same.
Rawhide
February 22nd, 2010
8:34 am
August – Yes…that score was 3-2 in a shootout. Sorry…my bad. Late night, very tired.
Hockey Biltong - So good to see you and the lovely Mrs. Biltong last night!
DWTOO – I spoke with Tim before the game, didn’t ask what his rooting interest was. There was a couple sitting at one of the tables behind us that was obvioulsy pulling for Canada…the guy argued the slashing call in the 3rd.
Dude…the stick was snapped in half for cryin’ out loud!!!
They left after we went up 4-3.
Pittsburgh Pirate Fan
February 22nd, 2010
8:40 am
How great is hockey? Do you think the MLB players would have played as hard for their country? How about rh NBA gangsters who made of habit of being talented stars that lose the lesser teams? Hockey pride reigned surpreme last night. Not playing for the money, they are playing for their country.
DWTOO-same Canadian reaction after the World Junior loss this year. The stupidity is lead by Don Cherry, the resident clown.
I am not into this pro-US, anti-Canadian (or in reverse) stuff. when it’s all said and done, it’s just a game that does not effect the world order. I still had to come to work today. Turn the page; here comes the medal round.
Hockey Biltong
February 22nd, 2010
8:42 am
DWTOO – where is Firebirds???
kracker
February 22nd, 2010
8:51 am
That was great! Now those Olympic suits know what “Miller Time” means! All those guys played so hard, it was a very deserved win. Not quite like Lake Placid 1980 but pretty darned close. Now go get a medal, hopefully gold.
ChippersLoveChild
February 22nd, 2010
9:08 am
Outstanding game, best hockey game I’ve seen in a long time. Simply Amazing! I hope people who don’t normally watch hockey caught that last night because we might have gained some new fans! Great job, boys!
Pittsburgh Pirate Fan
February 22nd, 2010
9:11 am
I’d love to have the Klennex concessions in Canada right now
Red Light
February 22nd, 2010
9:22 am
Steve Yzerman made a huge mistake with his selections. The USA victory last night proves that you must have guys in the lineup that are willing to do the dirty work, like Drury, Pavelski and Callahan sprawling all over the ice to block shots. Miller pointed out that the USA “D” did a nice job of creating a perimeter around him even though he was fabulous again last night (nice kid, too!). But, Canada is an offensive all-star team, not a hockey team yet. I couldn’t find the blocked shot stats but outside of Brendan Morrow, I didn’t see a whole lot of defensive hustle by their forwards last night.
By no means was this game a must-win, but for Canada it casts a pall over their ability to dominate their opponents, similar to the Slovakia win over Russia. Now, Canada must beat Germany tomorrow, then face Russia Thursday, while the good ole USA gets an extra day off and faces the Belarus-Swiss winner.
On the other side of the bracket, when will Lundqvist give up a goal?
Spud Webb
February 22nd, 2010
9:30 am
Lundqvist is awesome…WOW and WBF, “Do you know what “Sabre Luck” is?
Miller will lead the USA to gold and the Sabres will lose in the first round of the playoffs (or not make it at all)”
no kidding brother!!!!! I was thinking the exact same thing on like save number 38 last night!!! We will fizzle for sure now in the 1st round!!! That said, what a freaking game, GREAT job team USA!!! I loved the fact that wilson sent the 4th line out after the 4th goal for us, they went out BANGING folks!!!! Great job!! So proud!!
World Be Free
February 22nd, 2010
10:03 am
Spud-shades of Hasek winning gold in ‘98. Sabres have a great goalie and a bunch of 3rd liners. All Darcy’s fault.
Red Light-I agree with your post, but what choice did he have? Canadian public wanted the best players on the ice, not necessarily the best team. Canada would never select Drury or Callahan but both plaeyrs are invaluable to the U.S. team.
Bob
February 22nd, 2010
10:27 am
Let me guess, Waddell had no hand in Team USA and the selection of players this year, right? Didn’t he leave Miller off the last squad?
I agree with the correct assessment that the better “team” won. Canada doesn’t have the proper role players and won’t win gold. Team USA is assembled well and has great role players. How many times has Drury scored a clutch goal?!?
Russ
February 22nd, 2010
10:30 am
Has Heatley requested a trade from Team Canada yet?
Russ
February 22nd, 2010
10:31 am
I loved Kesler’s hustle diving past the Canadian player for the empty net goal to put it away.
Matt
February 22nd, 2010
10:33 am
Glorious, absolutely glorious win. The sound of all those Canadiens falling silent at the end of that game was ALMOST as good as winning the Gold medal.
That monkey on Team Canada’s back has got to be getting very, very heavy.
That said, the Swiss scare the crap out of me after watching them play Canada. They made Canada look very slow. Team USA cannot afford to relax, let down, or look past their next opponent. Got to play with the same intensity for 60 minutes.
World Be Free
February 22nd, 2010
10:40 am
Bob, yes he did leave Miller off the last squad. Burke had the guts to cut ties with the old guard and give the younger players a chance.
We need to win this for Brian Burke. He’s been through alot
DWTOO
February 22nd, 2010
10:41 am
HB -Firebirds is in the Walmart SHopping Center on Ashford Dunwoody. A little north of Perimeter Mall.
Badger Bob
February 22nd, 2010
10:48 am
Unbelievable game! One of the best in memory, no doubt. Huge kudos for the heart and grit of the Americans.
You can question Stevie Y’s selection of players, but I would question the selection of coaches – I don’t see how you have four strong and different personalities like Babcock, Lemaire, Ruff and Hitchcock behind the bench able to make instant, cohesive decisions.
Case in point one: Brodeur staying in the net when he’s having one of his wacky games (Goal #2, after playing a little baseball on the dump in that threw off the entire CDN defence, he makes a two footed slide that knocked the wide shot into the net; Goal #3, after getting distracted and giving the American a shove, he makes a silly, unnecessary dive after a loose puck that leaves the net empty). Lemaire pulled Brodeur after a shaky first period against our Thrashers here in December. He would have done that in this game if he were making the calls.
Case in point two: What the heck is Perry doing on the ice with one minute left? It was his lazy version of backchecking that gave the US its powerplay for the GWG. So you send his lazy A$$ out there to drift into his own zone to chase down the puck? Bad coaching – bad decisions. Pirate, my relatives report no tears, just raw anger in Canada, so consider a Smith and Wesson rather than Kleenex concession.
Bob
February 22nd, 2010
10:50 am
lol, Burke is the GM of this club? Oh, I love me that irony. Where o’ where is Sara? ranallo?
Red Light
February 22nd, 2010
10:53 am
Why pick Ryan Miller when Mike Dunham was available?
Red Light
February 22nd, 2010
10:55 am
Actually, Robert Esche was one of the choices.
Red Light
February 22nd, 2010
10:59 am
And, John Grahame with Rick DiPietro.
Here’s the complete roster
Defensemen: Chris Chelios, Red Wings; Derian Hatcher, Stars; Jordan Leopold, Flames; John-Michael Liles, Avalanche; Aaron Miller, Kings; Brian Rafalski, Devils; Mathieu Schneider, Red Wings.
Forwards: Jason Blake, Islanders; Erik Cole, Hurricanes; Craig Conroy, Kings; Chris Drury, Sabres; Brian Gionta, Devils; Scott Gomez, Devils; Bill Guerin, Stars; Mike Knuble, Flyers; Mike Modano, Stars; Mark Parrish, Islanders; Brian Rolston, Wild; Keith Tkachuk, Blues; Doug Weight, Blues.
A total of two returnees from Waddell’s choices four years later (snicker)!
moriler
February 22nd, 2010
11:27 am
You know Joyel too? Hah. Small world, man.
moriler
February 22nd, 2010
11:31 am
as far as the game goes — that was a _very_ hard fought game on both sides. canada’s definitely stacked as far as the talent goes, but it was really interesting to see a puck-possession team go up against a scrappy scrambling team. Normally the scrambling teams are short enough on talent that it really is a foregone conclusion, but the USA isn’t exactly shy of big names itself… it just isn’t 23 players’ worth of big names.
Not that you’d _want_ to play every night like that, but it sure disrupts the other side when you bend, don’t break, and come back harder. I hope the Thrashers are watching this and learning from it — they have the same talent disadvantage right now vs. the top half of the conference, but if they play this same way, they’ll have a lot of success.
FlamesFan
February 22nd, 2010
11:52 am
What a great game. Listening to Bettmen’s comments after the game, I hope they are able to work it out so NHL players do compete in Sochi Russia, 2014.
stendec
February 22nd, 2010
11:57 am
Morning Bill. I am one proud American this fine morn. Getting primed to watch USA women in a few short hours. USA men surprised me. In a wonderful way! I never bought into that hype about Team Canada being so much better than everyone this side of Heaven. Knows what generally happens to invincible teams? They lose! Usually in embarassing fashion. Remember the 1969 BALTIMORE Colts? Uh huh! I underestimated TEAM USA. I felt like the Americans would either lose by a goal in regulation or in overtime or a shootout. Regulation victory really shocked me. I personally prefer teams of workers over teams of stars. That is why I was so happy to see Ilya “Wasting Russian Roster Spot” Kovalchoke shipped to the toxic wasteland of New Jersey. Thrashers are now a TEAM! Not by choice so much as by necessity. But I digress. I believed Team USA would lose then fight its way back to a rematch which the guys would win to clinch gold. What I am fearful of now is that Canada will take that route. I am not saying Team USA cannot defeat the unbeatables twice but I am saying it would be unlikely in the extreme. Think Team USA would have whipped the Soviets twice in 1980? Need an ice maker in the Arctic? No! My fondest hope is that Canada gets eliminated before the gold medal matchup. Even if the damn Russians have to be the eliminators! As long as Ilya Notworthabuck (apologies to originator for using previously used name but I really like it) is not a decisive factor. Anyone else recall that 1980 Team USA goaltender Jim Craig was pegged as an Atlanta Flame? Man of destiny on team of destiny? Russians must have clanked iron over a dozen times in that historic matchup. Close does not count. Just ask a certain Russian who now skates figure eights for the Devils! One more thing. Russians had officials in their pockets in their last game! Even announcers noticed. Thought Olympic officials are supposed to be inpartial. That is a joke folks! Oh well. Drop the puck already! ++STENDEC++
POTF
February 22nd, 2010
12:00 pm
Just love all the crying coming out of Canada this morning. Time to start rumors about Canadian NHL teams moving to the superior hockey lands of the USA!
World Be Free
February 22nd, 2010
12:15 pm
Stendec-I have been waiting for your post all morning-’bout time!
These guys actually remind me of the 1988 LA Dodgers.
Midfield
February 22nd, 2010
1:05 pm
Rafalski will really need the day off. I thought he’d not survive the second period after all this visious hitting he’s been subjected to. I can’t believe the game he and Miller have played.
Sharon
February 22nd, 2010
1:52 pm
Wow, that was one of the most exciting games I’ve ever seen! Go Team USA!
R. Stroz
February 22nd, 2010
2:03 pm
Would anyone like to guess what Atlanta native attended Jim Craig’s debut game with the Atlanta Flames?
Yes, thumping my chest, I did. The Flames won 4 to 1 against the Colorodo Rockies. The OMNI was sold out and the place was electric.
I actually bought the tickets for me (I was 15 at the time) and my father, who didn’t want to pay for lower level tickets. We had seats in the lower bowl diagonal to the ice, similar to the seats I currently have for Thrasher games.
Now, this is the cool part. When it was time for the National Anthem, I stood up and started singing the words loudly with pride. At first, my father and the people around us looked at me like a knucklehead, but soon, everyone around me joined in, and after the Anthem, a USA chant broke out.
Some moments, you never forget.
alex
February 22nd, 2010
2:28 pm
disagree with most of bloggers complaining not enought roll players on canada team. my point completely oppozite where stamkos and st louis from tampa, why perry and morrow here. it’s stupid selection by yserman (just my privat opinion)
MB
February 22nd, 2010
2:48 pm
Stroz, I was at that game as well…one of my favorite moments in Atlanta sports history. I’d have to look it up, but in my memory Craig faced a ton of shots that night and came up big time after time. The Omni was indeed electric that night.
Unfortunately, that was one of the few highlights of his professional career. Then again, he gets to say, “Hi, I’m gold medal winner Jim Craig, one of the heroes of the 1980 Miracle on Ice.” So he’s got that going for him, which is nice.
Lee
February 22nd, 2010
3:02 pm
Man, I was really disapointed last night. Even though I live here, I grew up in Canada…so it’s a bitter-sweet type loss.
Lee
February 22nd, 2010
3:27 pm
Drury was a BEAST. So was Miller. Personally….Miller was their best player.
I heard that Russia and Canada will be playing at midnight, but if Canada beats Germany it will be played at 7:00. NOW THAT’S A HELLUVA GAME TO WATCH!!!
GaVaHokie
February 22nd, 2010
3:28 pm
Interesting… don’t know if anyone pointed this out before, but Toby Enstrom has a sister that plays for Team Sweden’s womens team.
http://www.nbcolympics.com/athletes/athlete=12572/index.html
Midfield
February 22nd, 2010
3:33 pm
And she is bigger than her brother too.
@ least we'll always have 1999
February 22nd, 2010
3:35 pm
Great Game!
J.B.
February 22nd, 2010
3:38 pm
MB – Nice Caddyshack reference there…
Brendan
February 22nd, 2010
3:46 pm
I’m sure Brian Burke has his son in mind, and players do, as well, as these Olympics unfold. It was a delight to watch last night’s game between the U.S. and Canada. I still think Canada can and will medal in some form or fashion in hockey this year. I am hopeful that the USA will medal, too.
I can’t say enough about that empty-net, clincher by Ryan Kesler. It shows how bad the U.S. wanted it. So, who does Canada face next?
Russ, I heard that Heatley’s agent decided that if the Germans win the next game, that he was claim he is German by birth, so as to be able to continue along into the games. And if Germany loses, he’s going to claim residency in San Jose, with a pending status adjustment request, to become a naturalized U.S. citizen. Then again, maybe he’ll just ask for a “release” before the start of the 3rd period.
Tom Lysiak
February 22nd, 2010
3:54 pm
Stroz, I was there for Jim Craig’s debut as well. Lots of hope for the future of the Flames organization that night. “The Olympic Goalie”, now a member of the “Atlanta Flames”. What bitter disappointment awaited…
On a happier note, I hope everyone caught the 1980 Miracle tribute after the game. Al Michaels did a great job and it was great seeing Mark Johnson, Mike Eruzione and Jim Craig discuss the games. Coach Herb Brooks was remembered candidly and fondly. It must have been really humid before that rain came in last night, because my eyes were full of condensation watching the teams celebrate after the wins over Russia and Finland. In my mind, the greatest sports moment ever.
Bob
February 22nd, 2010
3:55 pm
“When it was time for the National Anthem, I stood up and started singing the words loudly with pride.”
Did ya use a bullhorn?!?
Good for you, stroz!
Tom Lysiak
February 22nd, 2010
3:59 pm
Make that first win over the Soviet Union! Sorry.
da 'boomer
February 22nd, 2010
4:01 pm
This is how things shake. Pretty favorable for the US. A long night Wednesday for us east coasters w/the late Canada/Russia game.
http://www.ctvolympics.ca/hockey/news/newsid=49238.html#whats+next+mens+hockey+tournament
Also, is it me or is Mike Milbury a giant douche? I am hoping JR punches him out before it’s all over.
Badger Bob
February 22nd, 2010
4:01 pm
Where are all the fans who constantly agonize about the Thrashers being outshot? US was outshot 45-23, but nary a complaint here. So let’s keep it consistant and stop whining when the Thrashers are outshot…
da 'boomer
February 22nd, 2010
4:15 pm
I was there also for mr Craig’s debut vs Colorado. That was truly a great moment. Pulled out the ticket for some good mojo.
Tom Lysiak
February 22nd, 2010
4:15 pm
It’s always somewhat ironic to me that our own Teflon Don was one of the last cuts from the 1980 Olympic team.
Tony C.
February 22nd, 2010
4:21 pm
I’ve actually got a pool going for when J.R. finally succumbs and lets Milbury have it. $2 a square and 1/2 the proceeds go to childrens healthcare.
I have the 1st “Game of the Week” broadcast after the the break is over as my target day.
World Be Free
February 22nd, 2010
4:34 pm
alex-there are no role players on Team Canada, they are all stars. what hurts Canada is that they have held on to some older players that are past their primes. USA on the other hand, bid goodbye to most of their older core players in favor of the new guard.
But I have tell you folks, I think Canada is going to be one motivated hockey team after last night. I hope nobody thinks that we have seen the last of Team Canada for this Olympics. I think they are going to get their collects acts together for one heck of a run in the medal round.
It ain’t over folks; I just don’t see this collection of Canadian players folding.
Badger Bob-you need an elite goaltender to be so far outshot and still win and the Thrashers do not have such a goaltender. They need to tighten up in the last month and play sound team “D” around Pavs and Moose, assuming these are the 2 guys we have in nets after March 3.
rob
February 22nd, 2010
5:01 pm
Badger,
Problem with the Thrashers being outshot is there is no one named Miller to do the stopping behind the boys in blue!!! LOL
Lee
February 22nd, 2010
5:18 pm
Badger Bob – We have a good goalie, don’t get me wrong….but we don’t have a GREAT goalie. You have to be a pretty damn good shooter to get a goal past miller
LAC
February 22nd, 2010
5:25 pm
Stroz, I was ther that night too, remember the First shot from center ice by Lanny MacDonald, the OMNI erupted with cheers, that was as funny as it got, we beat a WEAK Colorado team.
Great USA game and proves whoever is in charge this year at picking the players did THE smartest thing in the history of Olympic Sports… Dumb don waddell is nowhere in sight to ruin the team and the moment !!!!
Hockey Biltong
February 22nd, 2010
5:33 pm
Lee- same for me too.. Born there, live here.
Eileen
February 22nd, 2010
5:34 pm
Stroz and the others, I was not at that game, but I have a clear memory of being at TJ’s (the former bar of Tim Eccleston) in Sandy Springs. Jim Craig was there. Of course, all of the girls were swooning. I must have been about 19. Drinking age was 18 then. Memories. . . .
Somaatl95
February 22nd, 2010
5:42 pm
taken from http://espn.go.com/olympics/blog/_/name/winterolympics/id/4934936/us-hockey-win-silences-canada
No, Canada
You lost to Uncle Sam
We’ll take the gold
You laid down like a lamb
With frying pans you tended goal
We scored on you at will
From far and wide, Oh Canada
We’re scoring on you still.
God keep your nets
Wide open and emp-ty
O Canada
We scored five goals on thee
O Canada
U.S. with gold you’ll see!
Lee
February 22nd, 2010
5:46 pm
Somaatl95 – Ha, I like it! Though, I wasn’t particularly going for Canada!
Like a Good Neighbor
February 22nd, 2010
5:47 pm
Among the most enjoyable moments in sport is watching the USA best our neighbors to the north and south, the Canadians in hockey and the Mexicans in soccer. They both have a passionate disdain for everything American and consider us inferior competition (see Mike Milbury). The Canadians and the Mexicans take such great pride in their respective national sports and in beating America. It makes our victories over them that much sweeter!
Badger Bob
February 22nd, 2010
7:57 pm
WBF – Amen on the goalie situation.
Archie
February 22nd, 2010
8:06 pm
Such an amazing game, USA hockey is pretty much the only hope I have to have a winning hockey team that I can call my own. That was Stanley Cup Finals type hockey last night, and since we’re not going to see the Thrashers playing that type of hockey any time in the near future, USA is my only hope. Watching that made you proud last night, you could tell what team wanted it more, which team was willing to do the dirty work to get the win.
Did anybody feel like they were watching a Thrashers-Red Wings game last night with the run of play being dominated by the team in red, and the team in blue scoring off their rare scoring opportunities? The USA-Mexico soccer comparison is a good one too, those games are also pretty similar because Mexico dominates possession and the USA is always the gritty team that grinds out goals.
World Be Free
February 22nd, 2010
8:53 pm
Bob-I hope the goalie situation changes someday.
Hockey fans in Canada, soccer fans in Mexico and Shiite sports fans all over the globe need to get over it. There’s passion in sports and then there’s sports stupidity.
Most Canadians are real nice people until you start talking hockey, when they turn into Jack Nicholson’s character from The Shining. “Wendy, I am not going to hurt you, I am just going to bash your head in. I gonna bash it in”. The best hockey players are from Canada, but other conties are playing too and playing the game very well.
I love sports, but I am not going to get whipped into some ESPN-driven frenzy that forces me to watch 8 hours of pregame and 4 hours of postgame. I am proud of the American reaction; we love the games and the outcome, then we get up and go to work each day knowing that the outcome does not impact our lives directly. It’s sports, and we need to keep it in that perspective.
World Be Free
February 22nd, 2010
8:56 pm
We were talking about Toby’s sister the other night. Jason Botterill’s sister plays for Canada. Jason played for the Thrashers in the early years, I remember when he scored a GWG in Buffalo against the Sabres in the first season.
stendec
February 22nd, 2010
9:57 pm
I have viewed all USA Olympic hockey games from start to finish. Know something folks. It will take a collapse of monumental proportions for the USA hockey women to lose the gold medal to host Canada. Can never root for Finland. That damn third world shet country produced Kari Lehtonen! Will always despise that son of a betch. Finn females laid down for Canada. Think they took three shots on goal the whole freaking night. Only a SLIGHT exaggeration. Way to go losers! Canada women over USA for gold would be as big an upset as USA men over USSR in 1980 Olympics. Yes, the talent differential is THAT obvious! Enjoy the rest of the games. Think Canadians will lynch Team Canada members if they lose Tuesday? Might be interesting to watch and see! Peace. ++STENDEC++
jimbo
February 22nd, 2010
10:09 pm
Great game and great effort by all of the USA TEAM, TEAM, TEAM. Hope that John Anderson taped the game and shows it to the Thrash to illustrate how a hustling, hitting team of underdogs can win.
Somaatl95
February 22nd, 2010
10:14 pm
You know what the best thing about last nights game? Going to tsn.ca and reading how all of Canada has turned on their “Unstoppable force” of a hockey team. One guy even mentioned that he has a 16 year old (son or nephew, I don’t recall ATM) who has never seen a Canadian team win the Stanley Cup. For a country that dogs us because we aren’t a “Hockey Town” they sure love to fling the venom at each other. I can see why most NHL players hate the Hockey Media and Rabid Fans up there.
Brendan
February 22nd, 2010
10:48 pm
Well, let me say it, then. “I’m concerned about the USA being outshot.” That second period worried me quite a bit, truth be told. And had it not been for that utterly “sloppy” Drury goal, they go into the 3rd stanza, tied at 2-2. Psychologically, I really do believe having a lead going into the 3rd period makes the team in the lead believe they are going to win. Or, at least, that they can win.
There’s nothing great about being out-anything’d. Outshot. Outhit. Outhustled. Outchanced. Outsmarted. Outcoached. Nothing. But, like they say, “wins hide sins.” If a team, in the Gold Medal Game, gets outshot 51-13, but wins, 2-1. Guess what everyone remembers about it? Answer: The team that won the game.
Yung JB from MTL
February 22nd, 2010
11:03 pm
USA will lose, cause miller cant win it all and hell be welcomed back to reality by someguy named ovechkin…
Eh!….Oh!… Canada Go!
Im starting to like Crotchby
Midfield
February 22nd, 2010
11:11 pm
Brendan, I think one of the roster criteria by Burke and Wilson was stamina, which I doubt any other contender has such an abundance of. Canada just had to ratchet it up in the second, and they eventually ran out of gas. As I said, Rafalski and Miller basically killed the dream team.
Brendan
February 22nd, 2010
11:13 pm
Red Light, your 10:59 post was right on the money. That squad went 1-4-1 in Torino. http://blogs.ajc.com/iceman-thrashers-blog/2010/02/21/5699/comment-page-1/#comment-21666.
LAC, I ask you to remember something. Imagine that Waddell hired a scout who decided that yours truly was worth drafting. Well, that scout should be fired. Imagine, that Waddell decided to sign me to a league mimimum contract. Is it my fault that I accepted the contract? Or, is it Waddell’s fault for offering it? Still with me? Is it Waddell’s fault that ownership cannot figure out that he needs to be replaced? No, no it isn’t. And it’s not Waddell’s job to TELL THEM that he has failed to turn the Thrashers into a perennial Cup contender. Guess whose fault that is? Yes, it’s the ownership’s fault. But worse yet, perhaps making the Thrashers into a perennial Cup contender was NEVER, EVER part of their plans? It’s painful to think of, as fans of the team. But really, if they were forced to own the team against their will, perhaps all they wish to do is collect revenue sharing dollars, at a league minimum payroll? If that’s what they told Waddell … maybe Waddell sat there thinking, “Well shoot, I can do that.”
Ultimately, it’s up to ownership to install proper management. The world is going to laugh at them when they RENEW Waddell’s contract. And Waddell’s contract ISSS going to get renewed. Soon. Otherwise, we’ll have an “Office Space” moment, where Waddell isn’t collecting a paycheck anymore, but he’s still running the team. For the owners are too scared to tell him that he isn’t under contract anymore. But Waddell keeps showing up to work, making team decisions, and running the show.
DWTOO
February 22nd, 2010
11:23 pm
Mr. Stendec’s remarks about the Canadians lynching someone and WBF’s remarks regarding soccer (real football) passion in Mexico reminded of the Columbian soccer player who scored the winning own goal for the US in the 1994 World Cup. Remember what happeded to him? Shot dead in a bar by a disgruntled fan. Taking it a bit far?
Brendan
February 22nd, 2010
11:26 pm
In the post-game show of the Winter Classic from Fenway Park this year, Brian Burke explained his strategy. And one of the things he talked about was, “You can be sure, that each and every player that has made our squad, will know their role and function.” So, immediately, the NHL panelists grilled Brian Burke, “Well, then, who are you ‘bottom six forwards’ going to be? Who are your top four defenders? Brian downplayed that, saying, “We’ll know by the time the Olympics arrive.”
Well, you have to hand it to him. Thus far, his choices look great. It’s young, fast, energetic team, that doesn’t really get pushed around too much.
World Be Free
February 23rd, 2010
5:41 am
Yung-I still think Canada is the best team here and could still win.
But pls review DTWOO’s remarks and other postings on the fan reaction in Canada to this loss. We Americans have our faults, but we are certainly not guilty of what Canadian hockey fans are doing to their stars. Never heard a bad word about Steve Yzerman until this week, never. Most of your guys are getting burned now for one loss in a preliminary round, not even the medal round.
It’s just a game-winning or losing does not change the world. Take it from a Buffalo Bills fan that waych 4 consecutive Super Bowl losses. You still have to get up and punch the clock the next day, win or lose.
World Be Free
February 23rd, 2010
5:46 am
Brendan, if there’s any GM out there right now I would want to face the fire it would be Brian Burke. Every time was picked to have star power, except the USA. This was not lost on Canada, nor will be it be on any opponent we face. Shades of 1980, another team built on the team concept.
Like I said, don’t think the other teams in the hunt don’t see that we are ateam. If the USA wins, it will change the way teams select the squads for Olympics to come.
Midfield
February 23rd, 2010
8:09 am
I don’t think that Olympic tournament will be a trend setting event for NHL regardless of the outcome, nor it should be. Completely different set of circumstances, schedule and opponent profiles. Remember how many ‘Miracle on Ice’ players made a splash in the NHL?
Don Waddell
February 23rd, 2010
8:14 am
Excuse me, excuse me,…I did not receive my paycheck
Excuse me, excuse me,…this isn’t my office
Um, um,….have you seen my red stapler…someone took my red stapler.
Canada
February 23rd, 2010
8:22 am
Curling is our sport. Don’t mess with curling.
Red Light
February 23rd, 2010
9:10 am
WBF & Brendan: recent posts are excellent, but what has been lost in the USA’s victory over Canada is that we got virtually no help from our “best” offensive players, which means Parise, Kane and Ryan could get untracked during the next two to three games. Ryan Suter has been very, very good, and played fabulously well against Canada. David Backes continues to make a name for himself. Burke is right when he said that 10 guys have carried them, and if they get contributions from the others over the next three games, I think Silver or Gold is a distinct possibility, although the semifinals against Finland or the Czech Republic mean you have to beat Kiprusoff or Vokoun.
I look for a USA-Czech Republic semifinal on one side and Canada vs. Sweden on the other. That means Friday will be one helluva day for Olympic hockey!
World Be Free
February 23rd, 2010
9:15 am
Canada-if you like shuffleboard on ice, yes it’s a sport. Glad you like it-to each his own.
World Be Free
February 23rd, 2010
9:19 am
Red Light-totally agree, 100%.
Which is why Brian Burke was not happy yesterday. Some of the best USA players have not played their best yet and they will have to in the medal round. You can’t expect to bring home the gold with your goalie standing on his head for the balance of the Games. Besides, some Sabres fans were hoping the USA would go out early so Miller could get rest for the March sprint to the finish.
All I can say is, at least we beat Canada. That in itself is one heck of a victory.
Smoothie
February 23rd, 2010
9:20 am
Don’t y’all think we’re giving Burke just a bit more credit than he deserves? Frankly, who can name 5 other players (besides Oshie) who are more deserving of being on the team? I don’t think Komisarek deserved to be on the team, but lucky for the US, his injury kept him off the ice. Most of the selections were no-brainers and we picked the correct midgets this time (no Gionta and Gomez) in Parise and Kane. But you’d be insane not to!
DWTOO
February 23rd, 2010
10:03 am
Although it’s like watching grass grow think Curling would be fun to play. Prop up a couple cold ones and throw a few rocks down the ice. We used to live in Northern Wisconsin and another winter sport (ie excuse to drink outdoors) was always welcome. One can only ice fish for so long.
Smoothie
February 23rd, 2010
10:06 am
“Sunday’s game against the United States, a loss that raised blood pressure across the land, was the most-watched sports program in Canadian history.”
According to BBM Canada overnight ratings, the game was seen by an average of 10.6 million, more than the 10.3 million who watched the gold medal final on CBC at Salt Lake City in 2002.”
Honestly, I’m a bit surprised that only 10.6 million watched the US v. Canada game in Canadia. I figured at least half the total population of 33 million would’ve tuned in for this epic game. Apparently, hockey isn’t as big a deal up there as they’d have you believe!
Red Light
February 23rd, 2010
10:06 am
Smoothie: You can make a case for experienced guys like Bill Guerin, Rob Scuderi and Scott Gomez, but you are right in that there were fewer options because of injuries to David Booth, Paul Martin and Mike Komisarek. But, Burke knows what he’s doing, and the Maple Leafs’ Cup drought won’t last more than another five years and he was dealt a brutal hand by his predecessor. You heard it here first.
moriler
February 23rd, 2010
10:08 am
the best part? Either Russia or Canada will be eliminated without a medal, and the US won’t face either of them ’til the gold medal round.
Red Light
February 23rd, 2010
10:12 am
Smoothie:
If you take away the doctors, cab drivers, strippers, dry cleaners, restaurant owners, foreign service officials, hotel and Tim Horton’s franchise owners, The English and French speaking Canadians amount to about half that many, so all things considered, it’s still a big number.
Don Waddell
February 23rd, 2010
10:18 am
Ya know, I’m a major player in US hockey….well, maybe not so much this year.
Who is Ryan Miller? I don’t remember picking him four years ago.
Smoothie
February 23rd, 2010
10:22 am
Red Light – indeed, pickins’ are a bit slim, but the U.S. has come a long way in terms of depth of talent. I’m going through the rosters now and so far I’ve come up with these players as potential candidates for the team: Wisniewski, Hainsey, Bogosian, Wheeler, Connolly, Corvo, Higgins and Byfuglien. But none of those players, other than Connolly and perhaps Hainsey, have much of a case over anyone on the actual team.
Good point about all of the service oriented professions that would take away from the viewing numbers. However, shouldn’t all of the hotel, bar and restaurant owners have the game on their TV’s??
World Be Free
February 23rd, 2010
10:27 am
I totally forgot about Byfuglien not being on the team. I expected him to be there.
Tony C.
February 23rd, 2010
10:42 am
Not related to hockey, buuut-whoever said that Team USA Futbol/Soccer gets dominated by the “more talented” Mexico Trico side is off base-sure, for moany many years that may have been true, but last time I checked, the current generation of TeamUSA has definitely had the edge for the past several years. True, it seems like we can’t buy a win in Mexico City, but otherwise the teams are evenly matched skill for skill I’d give Mexico a slight edge in possession play (footwork & tight passing) while USA enjoys the edge in goaltending and size up front.
I was really looking forward to the World Cup this summer-I thought we finally had a squad and a schedule that would get us past the round of 16, but our side has been hit with bad injuries to key players (Dempsey,Onyewu especially), so it doesn’t look as promising as it did after qualifiers.
P.S. TeamUSA plays a friendly vs. up-and-coming CONCACAF member El Salvador tomorrow night @ 1900 on ESPNClassic… I believe our old friend J.P. Delacamera has the call. This is going to let us see what some of the alternates for our injured stars have going for them.
Linkage aqui:
http://www.ussoccer.com/News/Mens-National-Team/2010/02/Bob-Bradley-Names-20-Person-Roster-For-Feb-24-Match-Against-El-Salvador.aspx
Badger Bob
February 23rd, 2010
11:00 am
Canada-Russia game moved to 7:30 EST tomorrow night. US-Switz/Belarus is 3:00 pm.
Too much being made in Canada of the extra game they have to play – with guys like Morrow, Iginla, Bergeron and Richards averaging 10 minutes per game so far, there’s plenty left in the gas tank to play one extra game. A bigger concern – when will all 20 guys play as if there’s a medal on the line and as if the other team will be playing their hearts out? (Ahem, Perry, Pronger, Nedermayer and Brodeur…)
Yung, count me among the Cindy Crotchby haters who have had to lessen their hatred because of his character and play over the past week.
World Be Free
February 23rd, 2010
11:12 am
Tony C-is that a Buffalo-Trico reference?
Smoothie
February 23rd, 2010
11:17 am
Okay, more U.S. players who may have garnered some consideration for an Olympic roster spot:
RJ Umberger, Matt Niskanen, O’Sullivan, Booth (INJ), Ballard, Scuderi, Legwand, Rolston, Mottau, Gionta, Gomez, Okposo, Hal Gill, Dubinsky, van Riemsdyk, Carle, Guerin, Goligoski, Tkachuk, Oshie, Stempniak and Mike Knuble.
I think you’ll see several of these names on the 2014 roster like Niskanen, O’Sully, Booth, Dubinsky, JVR, Goligoski and Oshie along with other youngsters such as John Carlson, Derek Stepan, Peter Mueller, Colin Wilson, Bogosian, Byfuglien, Wheeler, Dubinsky and maybe even Jack Campbell.
GaVaHokie
February 23rd, 2010
11:48 am
I think Booth would have been on the team this year if not for injury.
World Be Free
February 23rd, 2010
12:12 pm
Cormier lost his appeal to be reinstated so he is still out for the year because of his dirty hit.
ESPN referred to Cormier at an “Ex-NJ Devils” prospect. Most of the posters on the ESPN blog asked why not refer to him as a Thrashers prospect. Typical ESPN stupidity.
The Church Lady
February 23rd, 2010
12:16 pm
ESPN referred to Cormier at an “Ex-NJ Devils” prospect
Maybe Cormier is no longer possessed by…hmm…I just wonder, wonder, wonder…who…SATAN.
Don Waddell
February 23rd, 2010
12:48 pm
Church Lady, can you help me, I’m possessed by the AFLAC Duck.
Bob
February 23rd, 2010
1:52 pm
Smoothie, there’s one thing that matters when looking at a GM. Results. Burke built the team the right way. Waddell’s results in the last Olympics speaks for itself.
I concur that he’ll have the Buds turned around in short order. It’s why he’s the best GM in the league and why he was able to make the right picks. For cripes sake, Waddell couldn’t even get it right with Miller and left him off his squad.
Midfield
February 23rd, 2010
2:02 pm
Hainsey as the national team material? I don’t think so.
Smoothie
February 23rd, 2010
2:33 pm
Who the hell said anything about Waddell? It wouldn’t have mattered who the GM was in ‘06. They would’ve picked pretty much the same players that Waddell and company picked. None of the following were options:
E. Johnson, J. Johnson, Kane, Kessel, Ryan, Stastny, Callahan and Quick. Meanwhile, Suter, Brown, Backes, Kesler, Pavelski were barely cutting their teeth in the NHL.
Waddell was certainly naive for picking Robert Esche over Ryan Miller, but Miller only started 13 more games than Biron in Buffalo for the ‘05-’06 season. He had a great year, but prior to that he had only played in 18 games.
Looking back at the stats, Esche had a couple of very solid years for Phlly leading up to the Olympics. Apparently, there weren’t any other American goalies worth a damn besides DiPietro, Esche and Miller. Of course, DiPietro was expected to be the next coming of Mike Richter and hindsight is always 20/20.
World Be Free
February 23rd, 2010
4:18 pm
I think Burke will make the Leafs respectible in the near future. I am not certain how soon he will have them back in the top 4 or 5 spots in the East. His lack of high draft picks, prospects and the salary cap will make it tough for Burke to rebuild quickly. The best he can hope to do is get tough 2-way players and have them overachive in Ron Wilson’s system. Montreal proved this seaons that you cannot rebuild through free agency.
Brendan
February 23rd, 2010
4:21 pm
It is amazing to ponder that … either Canada or Russia will be GONE, just GONE, so very early in the tournament. Coming in, that’s who the pundits had lined up for the Gold Medal game. What a break for everyone else in the field that one of those two juggernauts will be gone, early.
rob
February 23rd, 2010
4:39 pm
Anyone else have their fingers crossed that somehow Belkin will forget and we will lose a tentacle of the octocluster?
Midfield
February 23rd, 2010
4:39 pm
Brendan, it gets better than this. The winner of Canada vs Russia will play either Swedes or the Slovaks, which looks like a much tougher bracket than the one US is facing to me. Of course, there’s never a guarantee of anything in this format. It’s enough for one or two guys to have a bad night and it’s over.
Brendan
February 23rd, 2010
4:56 pm
I can’t believe I’m saying this, but if they lose to Germany or Russia, I’ll actually feel bad for Canada not to be on the medal podium during a Games that THEY hosted. That’s kind of sad, really. Canada claims ownership/invention of the game. To host … and not medal … would be terrible for them. I don’t wish them worse than a bronze.
Brendan
February 23rd, 2010
4:57 pm
Midfield, AGREED. I like the U.S. bracket. Things have, seemingly, aligned themselves WELL for the United States. It just shows how HUGE that victory was. Canada could not afford to lose that game in regulation time. And they did.
Brendan
February 23rd, 2010
5:03 pm
Rob, I don’t know what to hope for. If Belkin fails to pay, is he out? Definitively? I’m not sure, but I think the answer is yes. But even if he is out, what does that mean? That they’ll be looking for another investor? Or, that they’ll sell the team. ‘Cuz I want them to sell the team, so long as they toss in 33% of the profits of Philips Arena to the new owners. Without the arena revenue, the Thrashers are a sure money loser.
My wish … is for someone who cares about hockey, who is at the same time HUMBLE, to come to own the Thrashers. In other words, I don’t wish for Oren Koules and Len Barrie, two passionate hockey guys who just didn’t have a clue how to run an NHL franchise, much less a “fantasy” team. In fact, they (Koules and Barrie) treated the Lightning as if it were a fantasy team.
I’m certainly not a fan that demands that my team win the Cup every year, or I won’t support it. But I am a fan that says, “You have to SHOW ME that you’re really TRYING.” And renewing Don Waddell doesn’t exact instill confidence in me … that the owners CARE about the Thrashers.
Tony C.
February 23rd, 2010
5:10 pm
WBF- No sir, unfortunately no Buffalo-reference there. The Mexican Nat’l Team is called “Los Tricos” in reference to the three colors of their flag and accordingly their uniforms (Green/White/Red) Tres Colores -which gets shortened to “Trico”.
I don’t know if anybody else saw the “new” TeamUSA logo from Nike the “Don’t Tread On Me” -it’s pretty bitchin (IMHO) and I wonder if the public at large could get behind this motif for ALL our national teams?
http://shinguardian.files.wordpress.com/2009/08/dtom.jpg
Imagine something similar with a a puck & stick mebbe? Anyway, I like it a lot and wouldn’t mind calling our boys (and girls) “Rattlers” or some such.
Tony C.
February 23rd, 2010
5:17 pm
Maybe on sweaters like these shown here:
http://www.puckdrawn.com/puckdrawn/2009/07/totally_wwii_team_usa.html
Tony C.
February 23rd, 2010
5:20 pm
He also did this for our icebirds:
http://www.puckdrawn.com/puckdrawn/2009/05/totally-80s-atlanta-thrashers-concept-unveiling-.html
Basically, I’d hire this guy to do our 3rd sweaters from here on out…the one we currently have is crap IMHO.
Christy
February 23rd, 2010
5:39 pm
Anyone else see the Swiss/Belarussian Game? Had it turned on here at work and it’s the first time I’ve ever really, truly disliked the idea of a shoot-out. probably because it is a single-elimination round. Just seems wrong somehow to decide it like that after the effort both teams have put in.
anyway, hope the Canada/Germany game is as entertaining as this one has been.
Lee
February 23rd, 2010
6:12 pm
At this point, I am curious to know what my fellow bloggers think about playoff chances for the thrashers.
Archie
February 23rd, 2010
6:38 pm
Ya’ll gotta remember that Ryan Miller was a rookie in 2005-2006, and he only played 48 game that season due to injury. If I remember, he had a broken bone the first half of the year and he didn’t get back into the starting lineup for Buffalo until right before the roster was due to be announced. So it’s not Don Waddell’s fault, it was just bad timing that kept him off the roster in 2006. It wouldn’t have mattered anyway, the 2006 team couldn’t score goals. Like the poster mentioned a little while back with all the names that weren’t yet available, the US really had no depth in the player pool. Everyone in USA Hockey was really looking toward 2010 and 2014 for our medal chances.
Brian Burke could definitely have included more veteran scoring ability and playoff experience to this roster, but he made a distinct effort to get young, hungry talent and two way players with speed. Burke clearly didn’t pick the 13 best scoring forwards and 7 best defensemen. He picked 20 versatile players that give the coaching staff options. Look at Team Canada, they have talent they don’t know what to do with because they can’t find linemates for their top players.
stendec
February 23rd, 2010
7:43 pm
Hi Lee. I believe the Thrashers have a legitimate shot at the playoffs. Gone are team cancers Ilya “Stinking On Ice At Olympics” Kovalchoke and monkey puck man Kari Lehtonen. The worthless figure eight counting Russian cost the Thrashers valuable points with his do not give a damn play prior to his long overdue departure to New Jersey. Sori Letemin just has never been worth a damn. New uniform will not improve his worthlessness! Neither have NHL caliber talent. I really like Thrasher chemistry. Guys are forced to play together as a team. Teams win games not individuals. Another poster said they would feel sorry if Canada fails to medal in hockey. Man do I disagree! I would do a jig and I cannot dance a lick! Damn arrogant conceded Yankee bestards. Hope the unbeatable ones are upset tonight. Then get those overrated Russians the Hell out next. Enjoy. Peace. ++STENDEC++
Rawhide
February 23rd, 2010
9:15 pm
Lee – I’ll stick with my original prediction of 88 points and just missing post-season, though I’d love to be proven wrong.
Now…while we enjoy the next couple days of what should be some very exciting Olympic hockey…here is a litte something I’ve just posted about our own Thrashers TV announcer Matt McConnell.
World Be Free
February 23rd, 2010
9:19 pm
Tony C-cool
We Buffalonians think of Trico Products and Mexico; Trico was a huge Buffalo employer for about 80 years, then one day moved their act to Mexico. There is the link.
Archie-I agree with your post, but I think many had already seen enough of Miller to know he was better than what we were trotting out in 2006.
I don’t feel for Canada at all for 2 reasons 1) I still think they can win it all 2) they came in stating they were going to “own the podium”. Talk the talk, then walk the walk.
World Be Free
February 23rd, 2010
9:21 pm
Stendec-you do seem happier now that Kari and Kovy are gone. Another happy post from Stendec.
Lee
February 23rd, 2010
9:28 pm
WBF – I agree! I like the new happy stendec!
Bill and Stendec – I think that if the thrashers REALLY push in March and win the majority of their games, they have a fair chance, that said though, they need to keep playing as a TEAM….now that Ilya Notworthabuck isn’t here, they can’t rely on their “captain”.
stendec
February 23rd, 2010
10:03 pm
Thanks Lee. Was Notworthabuck yours? Well done. Love it! Thanks World. I certainly am. Thrashers are FINALLY a team! So Canada routed an untalented German team 8-2. Yawn. Excuse my total lack of enthusiasm. I could field a group of ice skaters then have a better than average chance of whipping Germany. Germany? Uh huh. I am positively torn between Canada-Russia. Hate arrogant conceded hosts. Hate Ilya “Waste Of Russian Olympic Spot” Kovalchoke and Alexander “Not Great In Shootouts” O even more. Too damn bad one team HAS to advance! Do not believe USA can repeat upset of hosts. Sure as Hell do not want IK to leave Olympics with gold around his worthless Russian neck! Maybe it will be so physical that key players on both sides will be banged up so badly that it will take weeks to recover. Might be edge Americans require! Oh well. GO USA! Please do not let up tomorrow. To be eliminated by Switzerland would be like a 98-year old woman in a skimpy bikini. Bad enough to think about. Even worse to actually SEE! Enjoy the Olympics tonight all you lovable hockey addicts. I will be watching right along with you! Peace. ++STENDEC++
Brendan
February 24th, 2010
12:23 am
Latvia has tied it up! We’re going to overtime, 2-2!! Can you BELIEVE it? C’mon Latvia. One more goal.
What a blow this would be to the Czech Republic, if they lose.
Brendan
February 24th, 2010
12:48 am
Oh well. Congratulations David Krecji, and the Czech Republic, for a 3-2, overtime win.
Lee
February 24th, 2010
7:12 am
Stendec – Yea, that was me, but anywayz….that’s not important, how many goals has ilya scored?
Lee
February 24th, 2010
8:16 pm
I mean in the olympics