The Heroes are Zeroes
by PPP on Nov 17, 2009 10:12 PM EST
in Game Day Open Threads
298 comments
This time it's not a questionable movie but an all-time great: Groundhog Day. The Leafs make the same mistakes over and over again except it's not the same game every night. Maybe that's the problem? They don't know that. The opener came when the high man, Mike Fisher, wasn't picked up. The second goal came on a brutal effort of fronting by Luke Schenn and Carl Gunnarson. The third goal against came when Rickard Wallin failed to pick up Mike Fisher.
Then there was the now expected average goaltender being made to look amazing. Tonight's role was played by Pascal Leclaire who made some good saves, was made to look great on others, and was lucky on a few. The other sore point, and in no way responsible for the Leafs' failure to score, was some pretty questionable refereeing. They seemed to want to return to the old system and on a night when the Leafs were the ones moving their feet the most it was painfully evident.
Now it's your turn. What did you think? One good thing per bad thing please.
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Positive
Harrison Ford has a new movie coming out that doesn’t look sucky!
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
Positve
Phil Kessel is awesome.
Junior Director of Anti-Bandwagoning, PPP Amalgamated Heavy Industries
Truculence is Everything: Blogging Leafs Nation's Emotions, Because We Care.
by Marc Pilgrim on Nov 17, 2009 10:16 PM EST up reply actions
yeah
was he bad enough to let Exelby into a game?
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
no, but schenn needs some time in the press box
bring up big phil
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:17 PM EST up reply actions
he does need press box time.
But I have a feeling they’d put XLB in before calling anyone else up.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
yeah, they would
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:18 PM EST up reply actions
Hell no.
Nothing is worth letting XLB into a game (unless it involved injuring an opponent)
Junior Director of Anti-Bandwagoning, PPP Amalgamated Heavy Industries
Truculence is Everything: Blogging Leafs Nation's Emotions, Because We Care.
by Marc Pilgrim on Nov 17, 2009 10:18 PM EST up reply actions
Fuck it
Burn it down, waive every forward but Kessel grabbo, kulie poni Orr and Hagman
fill the s[pots with the kids
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:16 PM EST reply actions
I'm out for the night
got class in the morning…
And if you guys can, add this to the FTB
Space Weed Says The Steve Ott of Hockey Blogs
"DO NOT get stuck behind Kyle Wellwood in the buffet line. This isn't really etiquette, but it will prevent you from starving to death"- Down Goes Brown on Etiquette for Jason Spezza's wedding
by Kevin Sellathamby on Nov 17, 2009 10:16 PM EST reply actions
Peace out
Space Weed.
Junior Director of Anti-Bandwagoning, PPP Amalgamated Heavy Industries
Truculence is Everything: Blogging Leafs Nation's Emotions, Because We Care.
by Marc Pilgrim on Nov 17, 2009 10:17 PM EST up reply actions
THIS IS ALL MY FAULT
I KEPT JASON BLAKE IN MY KEEPER LEAGUE. FML.
i’m sorry.
Yesterday is dead, but not my memory.
More fullfilling to read the Leafs on PPP
than watch them lose on TV. I’m ridding myself from any TML and NHL exposure till December. Hopefully changes will be made, and Leafs become respectable. So, as for now, my mind has better things to digest- despite the world coming to tribulations, well…better than this calamity.
Cheers, and continue those latent cheers.
by aki berg fan club on Nov 17, 2009 10:17 PM EST reply actions
by aki
don’t blame you…. have a good rest from this team.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
I wont turn away, I can’t turn away. I’m in for all the lumps.
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:20 PM EST up reply actions
You have a good chin Jared; keep your head up.
by aki berg fan club on Nov 17, 2009 10:21 PM EST up reply actions
im all up in this thing like rocky
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:24 PM EST up reply actions
Thanks Karina, I will miss it though….
by aki berg fan club on Nov 17, 2009 10:21 PM EST up reply actions
I haven’t quite been able to tear myself away, no matter how badly I want to…
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
I watch with passion too- I just dont’ like to feel this disappointment of losing and lack synergy to win- there has to be change; hopefully being absent, I can make this all a dream, and comeback and the Leafs are contenders.
by aki berg fan club on Nov 17, 2009 10:25 PM EST up reply actions
how many games left in november???
by aki berg fan club on Nov 17, 2009 10:26 PM EST up reply actions
It’s doesn’t matter (6)
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JaredFromLondon: ...Odin, he's cool.
by Travis Hair on Nov 17, 2009 10:27 PM EST up reply actions
it’ll be nmice to see a trade or two occur, and a winning streak too.
by aki berg fan club on Nov 17, 2009 10:28 PM EST up reply actions
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:28 PM EST up reply actions
It will nice too see hanson and bozak playing, and wallin and blake NOT!
by aki berg fan club on Nov 17, 2009 10:29 PM EST up reply actions
and The Monster to be starter!!!!
by aki berg fan club on Nov 17, 2009 10:30 PM EST up reply actions
Shut your mouth and know your role.
Support Your Local Coyotes Blog - Five For Howling
JaredFromLondon: ...Odin, he's cool.
by Travis Hair on Nov 17, 2009 10:32 PM EST up reply actions
I feel like shoving something
straight down someone’s candy-ass!
Junior Director of Anti-Bandwagoning, PPP Amalgamated Heavy Industries
Truculence is Everything: Blogging Leafs Nation's Emotions, Because We Care.
by Marc Pilgrim on Nov 17, 2009 10:34 PM EST up reply actions
Okay, I’m done…Have fun & drink wisely :P
by aki berg fan club on Nov 17, 2009 10:37 PM EST up reply actions
6
and we don’t play on Saturday the 28th.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
Welll…..I’ll listen to Ron Wilson on 640am on fridays still; he’s entertaining to hear;
by aki berg fan club on Nov 17, 2009 10:32 PM EST up reply actions
just tune in to watch Kessel rack up 40 goals and imagine how awesome it will be when he has someone to play with
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:26 PM EST up reply actions
G & B
G I’m drunk
B I’m a leafs fan and I don’t know what to do. An open letter to MLSE?
"Dad why are you crying?"
by my son has a choice on Nov 17, 2009 10:17 PM EST reply actions
Schenn’s fine, if this were any city besides Toronto or Montreal no one would be breathing down his neck. He’s not single handedly torpedoing the talented and hard working Maple Leafs just give him time.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
Not at all
But he played 59 seconds in the 3rd.
You know where I'm from.
by Archimedies on Nov 17, 2009 10:18 PM EST up reply actions
He got smashed all night and came back for more.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
I love the kid
Just stating the facts
You know where I'm from.
by Archimedies on Nov 17, 2009 10:20 PM EST up reply actions
I was mildly impressed by his stick-to-it-iveness, but mostly because it was enjoyable to watch.
by Peter Raaymakers on Nov 17, 2009 10:20 PM EST up reply actions
Careful, PR. We’re not in a very good mood right now.
I am Mikhail Grabovski's smirking revenge.
by kidkawartha on Nov 17, 2009 10:22 PM EST up reply actions
I think he’ll be time, but he needs to take a seat for a couple games, get his head right
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:19 PM EST up reply actions
And yet...
there’ll be the idiots who’ll be all “ZOMG SHENN IS SUX” “TRAEDE HEIM!”
Junior Director of Anti-Bandwagoning, PPP Amalgamated Heavy Industries
Truculence is Everything: Blogging Leafs Nation's Emotions, Because We Care.
by Marc Pilgrim on Nov 17, 2009 10:19 PM EST up reply actions
That’s where you take a deep breath, close down the Internet site that’s not here, and remember that those asshats don’t run the team.
Resident Capologist
uhm
did you just call the people here asshats?
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
Jog my memory again. Was Phil Kessel drafted 5th overall or did he not score 5 goals already? I’m always confused about things people call facts.
Supporter of the Sergei Berezin "Give and Go" - You give me puck, then you go to hell
even if the leafs do hit last over all by draft time and the bruins get taylor hall, there is nothing saying he will ever be as good as Kessel (there is definitely a higher chance than average, but still)
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:51 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah
Two cracks at the lottery for a kid that’s got a point a game. So far the Leafs are winning. Will they in the long-run? Maybe, maybe not.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
yeh i agree he looks good. but the odds are not stacked against the Leafs. Kessel is too soft, some say has a bad attitude and lacks leadership. sure a great sniper, but a nucleus of a winning team… dunno about that.
try to update yourself on Kessel. He’s none of those things.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
he is a team player for sure
why does he have to be tough and a leader?
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:54 PM EST up reply actions
So how do you know that he isn’t?
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
very few players are captain material before they are 25, I cant think of any player that actually earned it by being anything but the most skilled player and then growing into it
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:58 PM EST up reply actions
sorry to be so negative here. i love this site really. but all 30 years of being a Leaf fan has made the bitterness rise to the top. i had hoped that burke would be patient with the growth of this team and avoid the quick fixes like previous regimes, but sadly no. sigh i cant find no bright side
Kessel isnt a quick fix at all, its a quicker fix than the draft
but this isnt bringing in Owen Nolan all over again
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:59 PM EST up reply actions
Everyone’s negative. The team stinks. That’s not a problem. But if you’re tossing this out
but he isnt also a tough, a team player and a leader…
without any backup isn’t really constructive.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
well for a first, if the leafs had a 21 year old hot shot and he wanted out for a divisional rival and held the GM ransom to trade him… we’d all be pulling out the pitchforks and nooses. if that doesnt say something about his character than i dont know what.
Kessel didnt want out, his GM signed up all these other players for their projected value and left him till last, and he didnt want to sign for peanuts to fit under the cap
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 11:04 PM EST up reply actions
the blackhawks are only beginning to face their cap troubles.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
they are going to lose some valuble talent retaining their core
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 11:06 PM EST up reply actions
what percentages? You’re pulling stuff out of thin air….
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
just using common sense! i cant say its definite but the chances of Chicago letting their three young top players go is next impossible.
yes
but They have a LOT of other good young players as well. Obviously, the Bruins didn’t consider Kessel one of their top 3 young players or they would have kept him over Krejci etc.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
well maybe so they saw something in Kessel not worth fighting over. thats the point im trying to make. how come they didnt fight tooth and nail to keep him? what gives?
who knows? Maybe Chirrelli just didnt like him as a person
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 11:16 PM EST up reply actions
Common Sense
The Hawks have $43M tied up in 13 players for next year.
http://www.capgeek.com/charts.php?Team=11&salary_cap_mil=56&salary_cap_thou=8
Pending UFAs – Current Salary
John Madden – $2.75M
Adam Burish – $700K
Andrew Ebbet – $487K
Not much there to worry about but they still only have $13M to sign 10 guys including:
Pending RFAs – Current Salary
Patrick Kane – $3.3M
Jonathan Toews – $2.8M
Andrew Ladd – $1.5M
Ben Eager – $1M
Duncan Keither $1.5M
Niklas Hjalmarsson $640K
Now, let’s say that Toews and Kane get market rates that should cover $12M leaving about $1M to sign 9 other players.
Sure, they kept them. It’s just common sense. Of course, now they are playing with 16 players
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
and they unload, say Sharp or Versteeg, that covers Keith
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 11:39 PM EST up reply actions
Based on what? Detroit’s farm system got raped this summer when Samuelsson, Hudler and Kopecky all took off.
Why? No cap room to keep them.
Resident Capologist
but theyre not key core players. thats the drawback of this cap world. juggling role players against your stars. looks at pittsburgh! keep your young talent. crosby, malkin staal, fleury locked up long term. probably throw in letang next. everyone else is interchangable. all the experts said the Pens were screwed after they lost the cup becuase so many “important” middle level players left as UFAs. obviously it wasnt the case
well there is a problem with that, what happens when Malkin goes down and Crosby struggles? if you dont have the secondary players, you still lose
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 11:14 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah
Because Malkin was on his entry level deal. The Hawks won’t have that luxury
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
Pittsburgh didn’t have Huet for 3 more years at 5.6, Campbell for 7 more years at 7.1, or Hossa for 12 more years at 5.2
The Pens have their money tied up in two franchise centers and a franchise goalie, and divy up the rest as needed. Chicago’s trying to lock up two franchise scorers, three franchise D-men, and a number of key young players, only they’ve got two albatross contracts and a 31 year old with a 12 year contract. Not exactly the same scenario.
Resident Capologist
what tallon was smoking is besides the point. theres no way toews, kane and keith are going anywhere. if the Rags can jettision Gomez’s insane contract, anything is possible.
I’m sorry, but what has any of this had to do with the original point you were trying to make?
Resident Capologist
fuck i dunno. im lost.
something about Burke giving away 2 possible franchise players for a talented kid with questionable attitude.
seriously
look up Burke’s comments. He has a lot of experience with Kessel on the US National team. There are no attitude problems. He doesn’t hit, no, but he sure does score, which was a huge need.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
yeah, and he also got a kid who scored 36 goals in 72 games for 2 potential busts
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 11:24 PM EST up reply actions
that’s the taste of our losing. It’ll go away eventually.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
giving up first rounders never leaves a good taste, it isnt supposed to
the point we are trying to make is that Kessel may very well be more than worth it and this isnt trading away our future like in the past
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 11:27 PM EST up reply actions
You’re allowed to be upset with the deal. There are plenty of people who are and mostly they side with the fact that the Leafs should not go for these types of deals right now. But your supporting arguments didn’t actually help you, which is what people were pointing out.
Supporter of the Sergei Berezin "Give and Go" - You give me puck, then you go to hell
you think the Habs would take on two players making $7 mill+?
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
99 percent of the Gms arnt gainey
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 11:25 PM EST up reply actions
GMs are the smartest types. Campbell contract? Malone? Finger!? any Sather deal, pretty much all July 1st deals…. someone will be dumb or desperate enough to take Campbell or Huet.
well then
we should be able to find someone who’ll take Blake and Finger.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
out of most of our D, Finger is one I want to keep
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 11:29 PM EST up reply actions
yeah
but his contract still is hard to swallow.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
I think finger was brought in to be a 2nd pairing defenseman and was paid as such, but variables like Schenn sticking and White turning on the burners bumped him down.
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 11:33 PM EST up reply actions
yeah
but it still wasn’t necessary to sign him at that price.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
nah, but I’m pretty sure he’d more than earn that money if he got second pairing mins and some PP time
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 11:35 PM EST up reply actions
maybe, maybe not, but any gm that takes one is going to want some icing, and that will be some of chicagos core skill
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 11:29 PM EST up reply actions
Giving out contracts of that magnitude is a whole different ballgame from trading for them.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
Sure
It’s still possible for the Leafs to win the Cup.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
Their big success was that Malkin was still on his entry level deal so he counted about a third as much towards the cap as he does this year
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
The Boston Bruins have $42M committed to 13 players.
Pending UFAs – Current Salaries
Marc Savard – $5M
Derek Morris – $3M
Andrew Ference – $1.4
Pending RFAs – Current Salaries
Blake Wheeler – $2.85M
Daniel Paille – $1.125M
Vlad Sobotka – $700K
Mark Stuart – $1.4M
Now, they won’t re-sign all of them mostly because they can’t but they need to fill 10 spots with $14M.
Savard could take at least a third of that. Wheeler will likely be another $3M so that leaves $6M for 8 spots and that leaves 3 RFAs un-signed.
That’s the reality that is facing Chiarelli. He is primed to lose another RFA or two and then he’ll have to fill out the roster with league minimum players. That doesn’t win Cups.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
We’ll see if they can.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
If they can retain Keith Toews and Kane, they did pretty good, but it will probably cost them at least 2 of versteeg, byfuglian and Sharp
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 11:09 PM EST up reply actions
Obviously I’ll give him the benefit of the doubt but he had his valuation of his play and role and Chiarelli starting signing up all of the other players and then asked him to take less money.
Then, instead of signing an offer sheet and screwing the Bruins he said he wanted to be traded to the Leafs.
Frankly, the Bruins have little to complain about. Their evaluation of Kessel didn’t match his and they STILL got 2 1sts and a 2nd.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
Look at it this way:
Taylor Hall projects into a player who might – might – be able to become a regular 30+ goal scorer in the NHL. If we’d picked up Hall, there’d probably be a year or two of a learning curve involved.
Kessel already has proven he can notch 30+ in the NHL, and looks on his way to hitting that again this year.
So basically, Burke acquired Taylor Hall 10 months earlier than he otherwise could have, only he got a version where he’s 3 years older, more physically mature, and has begun to realize the full extent of his potential, and he bet next years’ pick that he could build a strong enough supporting cast to lift this team out of the basement.
Resident Capologist
by clrkaitken on Nov 17, 2009 11:03 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
These seem like unrelated criticisms of a player who wasn’t brought in to play that kind of game. Wayne Gretzky wasn’t a tough player either, but nobody brings that up as a legitimate excuse as to why he’s not a top player.
Supporter of the Sergei Berezin "Give and Go" - You give me puck, then you go to hell
How would you judge that he isn’t a team player or a leader?
So what if he’s not tough? That’s not his role.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
except for the physical play, Phil has seemed to balk every other negative say that has sent his way. He is running in traffic, he is playing two way hockey and he is competing every night
its a bit early for leadership, but thats not what he was brought in to do
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:53 PM EST up reply actions
He’s definitely not physical but in the games so far he’s been a dilligent backchecker, he’s played his role, and it’s way to early for the locker room cancer bit.
Hard to judge leadership this early either.
He has scored goals though and that’s his job.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
didn't think so
’cause you know, you should always be respectful of your hosts.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
riiiiight
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:48 PM EST up reply actions
Positive- Leaf fans at away games are truly awesome. Leaf fans at home? Fuck you all.
I am Mikhail Grabovski's smirking revenge.
they need to put mics in the upper decks
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:21 PM EST up reply actions
All the bandwagoners
can go fuck themselves.
Junior Director of Anti-Bandwagoning, PPP Amalgamated Heavy Industries
Truculence is Everything: Blogging Leafs Nation's Emotions, Because We Care.
by Marc Pilgrim on Nov 17, 2009 10:21 PM EST up reply actions
i don’t know about you, but i’m always more obnoxious in someone else’s barn.
Yesterday is dead, but not my memory.
You were not included in that fuck you, daoust. I assume you know that. :)
I am Mikhail Grabovski's smirking revenge.
by kidkawartha on Nov 17, 2009 10:24 PM EST up reply actions
i assumed as much. i just meant that it’s always more fun to get shitfaced and be loud and obnoxious and another arena.
Yesterday is dead, but not my memory.
no it isnt
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:27 PM EST up reply actions
Fact:
I have never been to an opposing team’s arena.
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JaredFromLondon: ...Odin, he's cool.
by Travis Hair on Nov 17, 2009 10:27 PM EST up reply actions
What other arenas are even close to Phoenix?
and the Mustache of Truculence (formerly Canada4Mizzou)
Staples Center and Honda Arena are both in LA. THat’s like a 6/7 hour drive.
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JaredFromLondon: ...Odin, he's cool.
by Travis Hair on Nov 17, 2009 10:36 PM EST up reply actions
I propose we start a mission to bring Odin to Toronto for a weekend with a game. He deserves it.
I am Mikhail Grabovski's smirking revenge.
by kidkawartha on Nov 17, 2009 10:38 PM EST up reply actions
you never get a little more giddy with the whole ‘road trip’ vibe? a lot more opposing fans to taunt?
Yesterday is dead, but not my memory.
I’m pretty much like that at every hockey game i go to
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:28 PM EST up reply actions
i’m obnoxious wherever i’m watching the game as well. but i get a little extra kick out of having an arena full of non-leaf fans to annoy.
Yesterday is dead, but not my memory.
every time ive been to the ACC ive been surrounded by more opposition fans than Leaf fans
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:34 PM EST up reply actions
have you gone to a lot of games against other canadian teams? the sens/habs/canucks games i’ve seen at the ACC definitely had a lot of opposing team jerseys around me in the upper bowl.
Yesterday is dead, but not my memory.
yeah, games ive been to at the ACC include Oilers, Canucks and Flames
also the wings
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:37 PM EST up reply actions
that explains it. those teams have big fan bases in TO for sure.
Yesterday is dead, but not my memory.
For sure
Especially if you are in the lower bowl
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
yeah, like I can afford lower bowl, some of us dont have gold toilets
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:43 PM EST up reply actions
Connections
At face I can get to one or two big games.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
all my connections are not hooked up at all
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:47 PM EST up reply actions
yep. this year was the first time i’ve ever splurged on golds, figured the home opener was worth it. but it’s hard to justify spending more than $70 or $80 on a ticket to a hockey game more than once or twice a year.
Yesterday is dead, but not my memory.
Yeah
We did it three years ago for the Canucks game, two years ago for the Habs, and last year for the Habs.
Mostly we get greens and sneak down
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
the sneak down is a great tactic. but i’m usually happy enough in the purples i get that i can’t be bothered.
Yesterday is dead, but not my memory.
usually this comes in games when we got obstructed view tickets
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
i was looking at the sens ticket site today, and their tickets are almost identically priced to the ACC. the only real difference was the gold (equivalents) were $169 vs $190 at the ACC. the upper bowls were $52 versus $55.
Yesterday is dead, but not my memory.
I can get you lowers for 40 bucks!!!
(Valid in Phoenix Area only)
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JaredFromLondon: ...Odin, he's cool.
by Travis Hair on Nov 17, 2009 10:48 PM EST up reply actions
Too bad we aren't playing TO
In PHX. Flights are CHEAP. 327 Tor to PHX
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JaredFromLondon: ...Odin, he's cool.
by Travis Hair on Nov 17, 2009 10:52 PM EST up reply actions
my wife and i decided after this weekend that a leafs road game as an excuse for a quick trip away from the kids will become an annual tradition. i was in scottsdale about 10 years ago, i’d love to go back. hopefully the yotes are still there next year and i can get down for some hockey and golf.
Yesterday is dead, but not my memory.
im not
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:25 PM EST up reply actions
Positive: Leafs are not in last place, even though they have had a positively freakish statistical run of bad luck. They’re shooting something like 2% in the third period for the season.
Positive: They’re like 10 points out of a playoff spot, with a ton of time left to go.
Negative: They overpaid for Komisarek. They need maybe 3-4 more legit top-6 forwards.
"You're gonna eat that g**d**n Koho, three!"
Komi isnt an issue at all, he was worth it when he was blocking and hitting the way he was when he went down
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:22 PM EST up reply actions
Overpaid for Komisarek? You noticed that everything went to shit as soon as he got hurt, right?
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
Sarah Palin
how did this woman even get to run as VP?
Leafs should sign Levi, he’s a hockey player.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
It would increase our female fan base by double.
I am Mikhail Grabovski's smirking revenge.
by kidkawartha on Nov 17, 2009 10:23 PM EST up reply actions
Why be covered by Niedemeyer or Pronger
if you can be covered in Playgirl?
and the Mustache of Truculence (formerly Canada4Mizzou)
Because many americans are stupid
Doncha know?
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JaredFromLondon: ...Odin, he's cool.
by Travis Hair on Nov 17, 2009 10:23 PM EST up reply actions
Odin, bring us something we can burn and stomp right now. Please.
I am Mikhail Grabovski's smirking revenge.
by kidkawartha on Nov 17, 2009 10:24 PM EST up reply actions
I'm angry
I want something to burn and stomp.
Junior Director of Anti-Bandwagoning, PPP Amalgamated Heavy Industries
Truculence is Everything: Blogging Leafs Nation's Emotions, Because We Care.
by Marc Pilgrim on Nov 17, 2009 10:24 PM EST up reply actions
There's this dumbass book.
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JaredFromLondon: ...Odin, he's cool.
by Travis Hair on Nov 17, 2009 10:26 PM EST up reply actions
- shoots away at the book -
Junior Director of Anti-Bandwagoning, PPP Amalgamated Heavy Industries
Truculence is Everything: Blogging Leafs Nation's Emotions, Because We Care.
by Marc Pilgrim on Nov 17, 2009 10:26 PM EST up reply actions
I prefer this version.
Much more accurate.
(yes, its a real book)
I am Mikhail Grabovski's smirking revenge.
by kidkawartha on Nov 17, 2009 10:29 PM EST up reply actions
Whichever version.
They both suck.
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JaredFromLondon: ...Odin, he's cool.
by Travis Hair on Nov 17, 2009 10:31 PM EST up reply actions
If I wasnt already headed towards a liver transplant, this season will seal the deal
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:27 PM EST reply actions
I’m trying not to crack open a drink until I’ve had food, but I’m so angry I can’t cook anything right now.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
have a pb and j and a beer
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:29 PM EST up reply actions
sushi is terrible to eat before drinking, doesnt create enough of a layer
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:31 PM EST up reply actions
You’re not eating enough of it then. THe rice will absorb a lot.
Support Your Local Coyotes Blog - Five For Howling
JaredFromLondon: ...Odin, he's cool.
by Travis Hair on Nov 17, 2009 10:32 PM EST up reply actions
you’re supposed to eat the rice? i thought that was garnish
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:33 PM EST up reply actions
This season
is going to slowly, but surely eat away at my sanity.
Junior Director of Anti-Bandwagoning, PPP Amalgamated Heavy Industries
Truculence is Everything: Blogging Leafs Nation's Emotions, Because We Care.
by Marc Pilgrim on Nov 17, 2009 10:28 PM EST up reply actions
Is posting something critical...
…of a team that is now DEAD LAST (tied for it) in the NHL considered being a badwagoner? These are professional athletes here and they simply aren’t getting it done. Blake’s ‘back-checking’ on the third goal was pathetic, the forwards simply aren’t willing to pay the price by going to the net, and aside from one good week by Kaberle, one good week by Gustavson and an amazing start by Kessel, this team has had zero bright spots.
The playoffs are basically already out of reach, in mid-november, and we don’t even have the draft to look forward to.
Stop me if I’m incorrect here that this team is fully deserving of the criticism they have been getting and that being critical of statistically with Carolina, the worst team in the league isn’t being a bandwagoner…
by smashmouthhockey on Nov 17, 2009 10:30 PM EST reply actions
No.
“Bandwagoning” is constituted of inane comments that consist of “F—- the Leafs I quit”, then suddenly coming back when things turn around.
Constructive crticizing is not bandwagoning.
Junior Director of Anti-Bandwagoning, PPP Amalgamated Heavy Industries
Truculence is Everything: Blogging Leafs Nation's Emotions, Because We Care.
by Marc Pilgrim on Nov 17, 2009 10:32 PM EST up reply actions
I’m going to leave this for someone else. Too tired.
I am Mikhail Grabovski's smirking revenge.
by kidkawartha on Nov 17, 2009 10:32 PM EST up reply actions
you can criticize, you can be pissed off, you can even stop watching
as long as you dont jump ship and claim allegiance to another team, then you arnt a bandwagoner
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:33 PM EST up reply actions
Right...
Which is a why I wonder why the general tone on PPP has been to gang-tackle anyone who criticizes anything other than the the Blake/Stajan/Toskola triumvirate of whipping boys (although XLB is moving up there).
I am and always will be a fan, and will continue to lose my mind watching every game I can, but the facts are there for everyone to see:
- We might have the most overpaid d-core in the entire NHL, even taking Kaberle’s amazing contract into account (Komi hasn’t been the same since he got his face caved in by Lucic and is not worth 4.5, Beauch is looking lost without Scotty N, Finger, at 3+ mil/yr has been riding pine, etc etc…)
- Other than fighting, we are one of the least truculant teams in the entire NHL.
- We can’t score (I’m not one of those who think we can’t, but we simply arent)
- We can’t keep the puck out of our net, although this appears to be turning the corner.
Ah well, bring on the Canes on Thursday!
by smashmouthhockey on Nov 17, 2009 10:47 PM EST up reply actions
Komi was back to fine form and was playing up to his contract (be it for 10 games) before he got hurt
but other than that, everything you said I agree with. I dont think the general consensus here is any different
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:50 PM EST up reply actions
We jump all over the people who start spouting the MSM party lines because we come here to get away from that bullcrap.
If you can make legitimate, logical arguments, and have some modicum of proof to support your argument, you’ll find this to be a pretty good place to have a discussion about the Leafs.
If you show up spouting “Laffs” “losers for years” “1967” etc, etc, we’ll kick your ass right off the Interwebs. Because it’s not helpful, it’s not original, it’s not thought-provoking and it’s just plain tired.
Resident Capologist
I disagree
I have seen some gang-tackling but it’s mostly when people come in and make long posts with cherry-picked stats.
If you’re a frequent enough reader you’ve seen a lot of criticism of Beauchemin, Komisarek, Ponikarovsky, and basically everyone on this team.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
Nope
That sounds about how I feel.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
But was the playoffs really a realistic goal when you look at this team closely? I was guilty of underplaying the sophomore slumps of a lot of players on the Leafs this season and as a result, the team’s 5 on 5 play has been pretty bad.
Supporter of the Sergei Berezin "Give and Go" - You give me puck, then you go to hell
Making it for sure? No.
Competing for them? Yes.
Sophomore slumps and regressions have been much worse than most expected.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
yeah, its one thing to have a player or two slump or regress, but when more than half your team does then you have serious issues
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:43 PM EST up reply actions
Any word on how long till Komi’s back? I think he was actually leading the team…
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
2 and a half weeks give or take
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:44 PM EST up reply actions
But aren’t the Leafs close to where they should be playing though? I would have been pleasantly surprised if the Leafs competed for the final playoff spot despite unknown goaltending, plenty of stay at home defencemen, and no real discernible difference in forward quality.
Supporter of the Sergei Berezin "Give and Go" - You give me puck, then you go to hell
No
They had below .900 sv% last year and should have expected at least that. So far, they haven’t gotten it.
They added two guys that were good on the PK on defence and two on forward and it hasn’t made a dent.
Forwards were meant to improve and they’ve regressed ridiculously.
On paper I don’t think that they were a 3-16 team in September
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
They overachieved to an extent last year, and they are underachieving right now.
Resident Capologist
Basically
Although it makes me wonder how much they overachieved the years the Leafs finished 9th. I think we’re seeing luck balance out but just the wrong way.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
For me the losing is frustrating for sure, but my expectations going into this season wasn’t that particularly high. I am, however, very disappointed that the Leafs aren’t a much harder team to play against, which was something I expected at the very least. A lot of players I thought would be better are underachieving right now, but at the same token, how many players are playing at their true level?
Supporter of the Sergei Berezin "Give and Go" - You give me puck, then you go to hell
They were harder to play against last year.
Remember how often they fell behind by 2 goals last year? Well they are doing it again this year (10 time so far) except they aren’t fighting back for the most part.
As for who is playing at their true level:
- Stempniak
- Stajan
- Mitchell
Of the top of my head
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
This Is Getting Demoralising
However, the Leafs have not even begun to fight! Actually, that’s true. They aren’t fighting the true individual battles that win games.
However, that’s three good games for Toskala.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
yes
I’m scared and confused about Toskala.
I’m not even sure what else we can do with our forwards though, I think we just don’t have the right mix.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
I have an idea
But I need it to fill out my game recap :P
Basically, time to forget about worrying about losing ‘assets’
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
agreed, Kessel will score at least 30 if he keeps this up and Orr earned his paycheck for 10 games
coulda been worse
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:36 PM EST up reply actions
Ok, I’m out. Going to prowl around my neighbourhood for some puppies that look like Blake to kick.
Then I’m going to watch Public Enemy and attempt to pass out.
I am Mikhail Grabovski's smirking revenge.
See ya kidk
Junior Director of Anti-Bandwagoning, PPP Amalgamated Heavy Industries
Truculence is Everything: Blogging Leafs Nation's Emotions, Because We Care.
by Marc Pilgrim on Nov 17, 2009 10:36 PM EST up reply actions
Positive
The Leafs are doing better than the team coached by P. Maurice! Negative: I haven’t been watching them and they are losing. Should I watch?
Yes
Maybe your curse has reversed but mom keeps telling me that you’ve been watching!
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
But only with one eye!
Maybe that explains the tied games? And only a few. I watched the Detroit game, seems to me like it was quite a few years ago, though. Doesn’t look like the same team.
the first men in black is on, i love this movie
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:38 PM EST reply actions
Grabovski looks like half the player he was last year...
No crisp passing, no crazy dekes…he just skates into the zone and loses the puck.
The Positive Point? Toskala didnt cost us the game.
We need some forward callups.
by TMLSiegeinVancouver on Nov 17, 2009 10:38 PM EST reply actions
I'm out too.
Later, y’all.
Junior Director of Anti-Bandwagoning, PPP Amalgamated Heavy Industries
Truculence is Everything: Blogging Leafs Nation's Emotions, Because We Care.
holy crap
this guy on Jeopardy looks like he stepped out of the ’70s
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
Ok
Game talk or CC folks :P
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
NP
Makes it easier to try to find really good insight to highlight for the game recaps
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
out
I leave you to your chatty game, or cathy talk, or whatever it is :)
and the Mustache of Truculence (formerly Canada4Mizzou)
It's like a train wreck.
I can’t watch this team, but…I can’t help but watch, at the same time.
Visit my blog at: http://50-mission-cap.blogspot.com/
Leaf fan for life! (No, really. They gave me a no-trade clause when I was born.)
by FiftyMissionCap on Nov 17, 2009 10:42 PM EST reply actions
Fuck
I’ll be here every soul crushing loss. And if the fuckers ever get good it’ll make it all worthwhile.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
the depths of this pain will make the sun all the brighter
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 10:44 PM EST up reply actions
me too. but i’m finding this all a bit liberating to be honest. watching the games in a complete absence of expectation isn’t so bad. i was entertained tonight, lots of ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs, but also a lot less ’for f8ck’s sake’ than normal. i think there’s a lot of progress to be made this year still, but this team isn’t going to win a cup this year, and they’re also going to look a hell of a lot different by next year as well. so i’m just going to enjoy the hockey and try not to be a spazz about it for once in my life.
at this point i think i just want this team to not be shit by the time my kids know what the hell is going on.
Yesterday is dead, but not my memory.
they’re also going to look a hell of a lot different by next year as well
That’s a great point. There is going to still be even more change to this roster so at least, in theory, it won’t be the same mistakes next year. At least, it won’t be the same guys screwing up.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
I don’t want to blow my load early here, but I think the team will look different even as early as this trade deadline. I’m not sure Burke will try to hold onto his assets for maximal value this year compared to last season.
Supporter of the Sergei Berezin "Give and Go" - You give me puck, then you go to hell
Burke was holding onto Antropov for that vaunted first round draft pick and pretty much got that second round pick at the last minute. I’m not sure if Burke will go for that strategy this year, obviously, the Leafs don’t have anyone with as much value this season, but also, I think it took a lot of Burke’s attention away from other moves.
Supporter of the Sergei Berezin "Give and Go" - You give me puck, then you go to hell
the leafs will be light two forwards and one defenseman by the deadline
mark my words
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 11:01 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah
Hell, do it before his self-imposed Christmas trade deadline.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
we didn’t have kessel though.
burke inheirited a lot of garbage, i don’t think he’s done getting rid of it yet. the number of UFA/RFA’s after this season is encouragement enough for me.
Yesterday is dead, but not my memory.
the only ones I can see getting anything but basic offers are Kulie, Tlusty, Hanson and maybe stemp if he gets back to the way he was working before
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 11:02 PM EST up reply actions
that sounds about right.
i’ve actually really been enjoying kulemin this year. if he can convert a little more on his scoring chances, he looks like he can be a solid two-way player.
Yesterday is dead, but not my memory.
yeah, Kulie will never light the score sheet up, but he is good for 20-25 goals and maybe 60 points at his max but with a solid forcheck and 2 way play
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 11:05 PM EST up reply actions
I don't want to scare anyone but...
He looks like a Russian Stempniak. Tonnes of hard work, good hitting, always working, snakebitten to death.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
ha, that’s pretty accurate. but you can use at least one or two guys like stemps or kulie on your team, as long as you have some other skill players that can actually bury their chances consistently.
Yesterday is dead, but not my memory.
yah, a couple players like that signed for under 2.5 a year is a good thing
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 11:10 PM EST up reply actions
I agree – at the right price
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
Not enough wrestling references
for my tastes
You know where I'm from.
by Archimedies on Nov 17, 2009 10:44 PM EST up reply actions
THAT'S NOT REAL RASSLIN!!!1
Visit my blog at: http://50-mission-cap.blogspot.com/
Leaf fan for life! (No, really. They gave me a no-trade clause when I was born.)
by FiftyMissionCap on Nov 17, 2009 10:51 PM EST up reply actions
From Elliotte Friedman
19. One assessment of Boston Bruins: "Boy do they work hard, but they have no finish."
Wow, that sounds familiar.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
some more insight from Elliotte
28. Some of Luke Schenn’s slump has to do with the fact the Leafs’ coaching staff believes a defenceman should always use two hands on the stick in their own zone. Schenn never played that way before, and there are still moments he has to stop himself from doing it instinctively.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
Hmm, that’s interesting. I always figured the reason for two hands on the stick was to avoid the clutch and grab that will always be called a penalty. Furthermore, I don’t recall Schenn struggling this noticeably last season despite I’m sure the coaching staff repeating the same mantra.
Supporter of the Sergei Berezin "Give and Go" - You give me puck, then you go to hell
Good observation
I remember Wilson talking about that last year but it didn’t seem to bother him too much last year. Maybe he’s being more diligent about doing that this year?
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
maybe
but if he was fine last year not doing it, why would they try to force him to change now?
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
I can’t remember if he did it last year but they were talking about it in training camp last year so I have to think that he did it considering how much he played or maybe he ignored it a lot.
I don’t know. To be honest, I’m frankly at a loss for the regression other than maybe his first year was too good.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
also he got away with a bit more last year because “oh well he’s a rookie, he’ll learn” and he is probably taking more flack from the coaching staff for his gaffs as well
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Nov 17, 2009 11:00 PM EST up reply actions
And I’m not even sure this two-hands on the stick is even just exclusive to Schenn. I’m noticing a lack of active sticks on all players, especially on the PK, and I have a feeling a lot of players are finding disconnect on instinct and coaching.
Supporter of the Sergei Berezin "Give and Go" - You give me puck, then you go to hell
When they’ve played well on the PK they have been using very active sticks.
But yeah, the two hands things is confusing unless it’s to avoid penalties.
And the weird thing is how often do you play that way yourself? Never.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
To be honest, I’m frankly at a loss for the regression other than maybe his first year was too good.
The only thing I can guess is that last year he was so happy to make it to his dream, he felt no pressure. This year, he’s the public face of the Leafs, been anointed future Captain by the GM and other teams know about him…. that’s a lot for a 20 year old.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
Yeah, that could definitely play a role.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
Bad thing: I am all but certain I’m going to contract cirrhosis of the liver before the trade deadline.
Good thing: I’m also a Cubs fan, which makes being a Leafs fan less painful by comparison.
Leafs Rumination: hockey and sesquipedalianism.
Facts:
1. Worst PP in the league (a result of coaching, goal tending, and willingness to sacrifice the body)
2. Can’t score the first goal, always playing from behind (a result of players not being “ready” → comes back to coaching?).
3. Out-shoots opponent consistently, but can’t score (a result of a lack of pure talent, but also a coaching strategy to shoot from all angles?).
Logical induction: there’s something wrong at many levels, but all signs point to a problem with coaching.
by Van Ryn's Neurologist on Nov 18, 2009 12:17 AM EST reply actions
While all of those things may be factually true (I think you mean PK not PP) it’s a jump to go from facts to thinking it’s coaching.
The Pk was bad when Quinn and Maurice coached, maybe it’s the talent and soft goaltending (and the PP is good, isn’t that a sign of good coaching?)
I’d argue shooting percentage is more a function of talent than coaching. Kessel’s shooting percentage is great – is that because a coach tells him to pick the corners?
I’m not saying Wilson is without blame here, but I don’t think these three things you’ve identified necessarily fall at his feet.
Bitter Leaf Fan: because sometimes there's no option but to be bitter...
I agree. It’s not that we can look at him and say “he is clearly the problem here.” But I think there are coaches for certain situations. Guys who can extract a good PK (as well as a good PP) out of a group of young guys. A coach who can get a bunch of semi-talented players to put it up every night.
The fact that Quinn couldn’t get it to work with a completely different group of players doesn’t mean we shouldn’t have fired him at the time. Like Wilson, he couldn’t get it done with the players he had. We need someone who can. Because we’re clearly not going to see 18 new guys in the line-up on Thursday night.
by Van Ryn's Neurologist on Nov 18, 2009 1:03 AM EST up reply actions
I don’t think any coach could get wins out of this line-up.
Look at the options up the middle, look at the dismal shooting percentages. Ron Wilson may not be the greatest coach (not sure what exactly he’s doing wrong) but with such a paucity of talent he has no chance.
This team doesn’t have the offence to score more than 2 or 3 and doesn’t have the goaltending to prevent 3 or 4. It’s a deadly combination.
Bitter Leaf Fan: because sometimes there's no option but to be bitter...
Well said.
Im a Canucks fan so I find it refreshing to see Leafs fans that arent delusional about their team. Im not delusional about the Canucks. They’ll make the playoffs, probably in a 5th seed and Luongo will shit the bed in the Conference Finals (each year they get farther, then fail incredibly), and then we’ll be back to another summer of praying for a top 6 superstar that isnt Swedish.
by Chuckles Canuckles on Nov 18, 2009 3:46 AM EST up reply actions
Indeed.
Although, look at Colorado. Who really thought they would be #1 in the West after 20 games? Maybe they have a more talented team. Maybe. But a lot of people are giving credit to their coach.
I really don’t think this is a great team, but nor do I think they’re as bad as their record suggests.
by Van Ryn's Neurologist on Nov 18, 2009 9:05 AM EST up reply actions
80% of good coaching is goaltending.
Any team that replaces Raycroft with Anderson is going to see a big bump in their play.
I still find it fascinating that all of the “is the room turning out Wilson” reports died as soon as Gustavsson got between the pipes.
Bitter Leaf Fan: because sometimes there's no option but to be bitter...
And I expect said
reports to return if things continue to deteriorate.
Junior Director of Anti-Bandwagoning, PPP Amalgamated Heavy Industries
Truculence is Everything: Blogging Leafs Nation's Emotions, Because We Care.
by Marc Pilgrim on Nov 18, 2009 10:02 AM EST up reply actions
This is getting monotonous.
"We can categorically state that we have not released man-eating badgers into Iraq"
- Major Mike Shearer
This season
will be the reason I lose my sanity.
Junior Director of Anti-Bandwagoning, PPP Amalgamated Heavy Industries
Truculence is Everything: Blogging Leafs Nation's Emotions, Because We Care.
by Marc Pilgrim on Nov 18, 2009 10:02 AM EST up reply actions
I can’t wait until I move past the anger stage and into the acceptance stage in dealing with the fact this team is an epic fail.
It’s getting to the point where I’m more and more angry with each subsequent loss. And I’m conflicted in watching because the losing is so bad that I can’t stand to watch, but then I feel mad at myself for not watching so I start watching again.
And when they get behind, even by a goal (which pretty much happens all the time) I have zero confidence that they will come back. Zero.
I thought the 80s were bad, but I expected those teams to be awful. I still have some residual thoughts and feelings that, despite mountains of evidence to the contrary, this team is not this bad.
So, basically, fuck.
leaf fan stuck in ottawa, still. Now truculently rebranded!
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