Coach SkinnyFish's Corner
by SkinnyFish on Sep 22, 2010 1:00 PM EDT
in Maple Leafs Analysis
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PrintFor those of you that don't know, I'm the head coach a squirt hockey team in Connecticut. We're not the greatest hockey team there is, and we may very well be the worst but the kids are coachable and you really see drastic improvement out of them over the course of a season. Coaching at a higher level is far more difficult because the players are so much better, the game so much quicker, and the opposing coaches so much smarter. As a coach, you've really got to be on your game or else it'll become very apparent that you haven't done your job right once your team hits the ice.
I like Ron Wilson as a coach, I really do, but I'm come to the conclusion that he doesn't know dick about coaching a power play. The Leafs were dead last on the PP last year with a pitiful 14% success rate and last night continued that with a pitiful 0 for 8 showing last night; including two separate 5 on 3 situations. Now I didn't watch the whole game last night as I had my own mens league bout, but what I saw on the PP through 10 minutes into the second was just deplorable. Let me break it down for you after the jump.
I'm going to breakdown two separate power play "strategies" that I saw used by the Leafs last night, tell you why they suck, and show you how to make them work. First off, let's start with the tried and true method of setting up a blast from one of your point men. On the specific power play I'm talking about, Kaberle and Phaneuf are at the point with #15 on the right and #3 on the left. The puck moves from the winger on the half boards up to Kaberle, who then passes over to Phaneuf for the one timer that sails over the net. The players were set up as shown below:
First off, Phaneuf, or whomever is taking the shot, has got to hit the net. It's a 4' by 6' box and you're a professional hockey player. Hit the damn net. At least twice last night shots from the point sailed over the net, careened off the glass, around the boards, and out of the zone. Congrats, you've just cleared the puck for the other team traitor.
Secondly, the forward in front of the net (on this play it was Armstrong) is completely out of position. When they replayed the shot with the behind the net camera,Armstrong is well off to the side with his stick on the ice looking for a tip and the Sens goalie has a completely unobstructed view of Phaneuf's shot.
Do you know why Tomas Holmstrom wears extra padded hockey pants? Because he's constantly getting hit by Lidstrom's shots from the point because his big fat butt is parked directly in front of the goalies and right in their line of sight for shots from the point. Armstrong has to forget about making a pretty tip with his stick, Phaneuf couldn't hit it anyway, and should move his large frame to just outside the crease and in front of the goalie. Deflections off of equipment for goals happen just as often as deflections off of sticks, and even if the puck gets caught in Armstrong's gear and falls at his feet, it's right in front of the goal now and just begging to be shoveled in. Wilson needs to get his forwards in front of the opposing goalies looking for body deflections and juicy rebounds to bang home either off of the goalie or themselves.
Also, with this same basic setup time and again the two defensemen would pass back and forth to one another and constantly fake shots. When that defenseman is Tomas Kaberle, you are duping anybody. Every one in the arena knows he isn't going to shoot, including the opposing team. I saw one play where Kaberle pump faked twice in a row and the Senators' PK team didn't even flinch. Hey Tomas, if you really want to fake out the opposition try shooting the puck for once. They'll never see that coming. Oh, and hit the net when you do.
The other power play setup I totally despise is the puck along the goal line thrown to nobody in front of the net shown below:
Who in the hell is that puck supposed to be going to? It's surely not going to get to the winger on the far side of the goal that's for sure. There's the center, the defender on him, and the goalie in the way of such a "pass", yet the Leafs tried to get it to him time and time again. That opposite winger should either be in the slot just below the hash marks to receive a pass from the guy on the boards, or behind the goal line to get a pass in Gretzky's office and look for an opening to hit a teammate who has broken free in the slot.
Forcing in through the goalmouth is not going to work here, ever. Wilson should know this and filter it down to the team in practice. Seeing the Leafs try this over and over is just unacceptable. Sure you can shout things like FIRE KEITH ACTON!!!!1, but ultimately the way the team plays on the ice is the head coaches responsibility. Head coaches in football have offensive and defensive coordinators, but he ultimately decides what overall schemes his team is going to use. The same holds true for hockey. Acton may be the man running the drills in practice, but Wilson is the man who tells Acton what to do. The blame for this terrible Leafs PP can only fall on Wilson's shoulders.
And that concludes the lesson for the day.
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While I agree our power play looked stupid yesterday this is one thing I’m not worried about in preseason. We don’t have a final roster, we don’t have all of our power play team.
To wit: our forwards were Kadri, Versteeg, and Armstrong on the PP. They’ve combined for 1 regular season game in a Leafs uniform.
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Agreed.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 1:04 PM EDT up reply actions
Agreed. Just pointing out PP problems that can be solved now in the pre-season before they start losing games that actually mean something.
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
There’s no way with the roster size that the Leafs worked on the PP. Last night was basically “Hey Phaneuf and Kaberle, you two should be good on the PP and so should these guys. Go score.”
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"should be good on the PP"
and yet with how ever many chances (seriously, I lost count. Was it 7?), they got nothing done. and they weren’t playing against a stacked OTT team.
given how anemic it was last year, I’d be looking for some improvement in this area.
This is my BOZAK!!!1
by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 1:16 PM EDT up reply actions
More importantly
the PK seems to be fixed (albeit for the one game), coming in the form of a simple and effective box. I know they’ve spent practice time working on it already, so presumably it’s here to stay.
Loving the Leafs is like being in love with a drug-addled, gambling addicted prostitute with a heart of gold and a bunch of humanitarian awards from her youth. It’s hard. It hurts. But dammit! I just love them!
by Van Ryn's Neurologist on Sep 22, 2010 1:05 PM EDT up reply actions
Notice the formation Ottawa used on their PK making us go 0 for 8 last night with the man advantage. It’s a box.
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
Like this new feature ...
Mostly because it rips on Ron Wilson. It was laughable to hear the excuses in the room after the game last night about the 5-on-3s: “We haven’t practiced it.” No, you just all suck.
Like the strategy breakdowns, too.
What I don’t like, however, is the “Kaberle doesn’t shoot!!!1” notion. It’s a myth. It’s been documented in the comments on this very website.
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From last night's box score
Kaberle – 8:33 of PP TOI, 1 shot. And the puck was constantly on his stick.
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
Every one in the arena knows he isn’t going to shoot, including the opposing team.
I took that to be more of a general statement. And as has been proven, Kaberle shoots the puck, comparable to other d-men in the league.
If you meant only last night, fine, clearly you have a point.
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Last night there were two occasions where Kaberle faked a shot and no one on the Sens bothered to even humor him. They didn’t think he was pulling the trigger.
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Phaneuf had 9:13 of PP time and 2 shots.
Two shots.
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2 shots, 2 misses, 4 blocks. Ugh that’s ugly.
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10 others missed the net and ricocheted out of the zone. This is not a good thing.
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
I really wasn’t enjoying the “cross crease to no one” technique.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Sep 22, 2010 1:29 PM EDT up reply actions
BRING BACK DARCY TUCKER!!! ;)
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 1:30 PM EDT up reply actions
Bring back a non-transparent power play scheme. The current ones lack any hint of creativity.
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
I’m thinking of something like the Tammy Duncan spin-o-rama in front of the net to distract the opposing players.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Sep 22, 2010 1:34 PM EDT up reply actions
so we should wear black? ;)
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 1:34 PM EDT up reply actions
Kaberle shoots but he had plenty of chances last night to shoot even more. Ottawa wasn’t falling for his shot fakes and were leaving him open.
He’s a nail shooter and really anything has to be better than Phaneuf blowing it off the glass and out of the zone.
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Two-time All-Star Accuracy Shooting Competition Champion
Last season he average 1.92 shots per game, 4th among Leaf defenseman behind Phaneuf (3.35), White ( 2.32), and Beauchemin (2.07). And that’s with 4 1/2 minutes of PP time a night.
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
This shouldn’t surprise you.
KABERLE HASN’T CHANGED. YOU’VE CHANGED.
I’m going to fucking lose my goddamned mind this season. We’re one game in. One preseason game.
I don’t have much longer, guys. Cheers.
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:(
take it with a grain of salt like I do.
People over react and criticize. It’s because they love the team and want them to do well. I try to look at their enthusiasm and appreciate it, but it doesn’t mean I like or accept what is said.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 1:22 PM EDT up reply actions
Honestly, it’s a bit too frustrating for me, especially after game one of the bloody preseason.
Haters gonna hate.
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I know where you’re coming from man.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 1:27 PM EDT up reply actions
It’s not one game in the pre-season. It’s one game in the pre-season + two full seasons.
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Once again, brother, Kaberle is not the SOLE reason the Leafs have been God awful the last two years and one preseason game. I get that you’re not singling him out, but, really, it gets to the point where Kaberle has indeed been singled out on this website.
The Leafs have so many bigger problems than Tomas Kaberle. So many. Yet, here we are, again, aren’t we?
It’s me. I take it too personally. I find it too frustrating. And I just can’t wrap my head around any of it.
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Is it wrong to say I love you?
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by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 1:32 PM EDT up reply actions
Kaberle is not the SOLE reason the Leafs have been God awful the last two years and one preseason game.
No one is saying he is.
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You didn’t read the next sentence, mate?
I get that you’re not singling him out, but, really, it gets to the point where Kaberle has indeed been singled out on this website.
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I think this has a lot more to do with Tomas Kaberle being some people’s favorite player than with his play.
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I don’t.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 1:44 PM EDT up reply actions
lol
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by Chemmy on Sep 22, 2010 1:46 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I think it has a lot to do with Kaberle being the longest-standing Leaf and one of the most prominent players on the team. He’s going to receive disproportionate attention. When the team sucks balls, as it has the last two years, that’s not going to be pleasant for his fans.
"That’s why stats are so important – anecdotal evidence just doesn’t cut it when you’re talking about history." - Bower Power
by The '67 Sound on Sep 22, 2010 2:17 PM EDT up reply actions
This is what I was thinking about but could not figure out how to say.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 2:18 PM EDT up reply actions
I really feel for the Kaberle fan club (daoust, GB, eye) because I really do like the guy. At the same time I can’t disagree with a single thing Chemmy has said. It’s sad that at this point Kaberle’s name can’t even come up without it getting nasty and personal and people vowing to leave and all.
I just wish Tomas would do the basics. Since I was 6 years old it’s been drilled into me that if your D partner is behind the net, you stay the F$% in front of the net. You don’t cheat behind the net for the outlet until you’ve clearly established possession. It’s defence 101 and Tomas repeatedly displays disregard for its basic principles—even though I think back in his heyday he was an excellent positional player in his own zone and quite effective.
"That’s why stats are so important – anecdotal evidence just doesn’t cut it when you’re talking about history." - Bower Power
by The '67 Sound on Sep 22, 2010 2:29 PM EDT up reply actions
Frankly, at this point I don’t think there’s anything new and constructive to be said about Kaberle so in general I skip the discussion all together unless I see someone I like saying they’re gonna leave because of it.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 2:30 PM EDT up reply actions
at this point I don’t think there’s anything new and constructive to be said about Kaberle
Agree. We could be copy and pasting complaints from last year all season. This might give ME a heart attack.
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maybe you should pre-emptively call your cousin
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 2:32 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah, but as others said below we have hockey for the first time in months so it’s inevitable.
If we put aside player names, it was a fascinating discussion of D-zone coverage.
"That’s why stats are so important – anecdotal evidence just doesn’t cut it when you’re talking about history." - Bower Power
by The '67 Sound on Sep 22, 2010 2:32 PM EDT up reply actions
How dare I objectively critique the habitual play of someone through thorough analysis, based on substantial video evidence, and backed up with statistics.
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
by SkinnyFish on Sep 22, 2010 1:31 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
You should do an FJM job on me, champ. I’m clearly a fucking hack.
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Well, you used to be a TV mittenstringer ;)
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Well, for your sake, I hope Kaberle improves.
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I HOPE EVERYONE ON THIS GODDAMN GARBAGE TEAM IMPROVES.
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by eyebleaf on Sep 22, 2010 1:26 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
Agree 100%
But especially Kaberle because you like him so much.
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Fcuk ya eyebeleaf. You rule. And rec’d.
by general borschevsky on Sep 22, 2010 2:10 PM EDT up reply actions
Maybe I shouldn't wade in here...
but I see it more of an issue of accepting Kaberle for who he is. Do we really need to harp on him when a goal is scored because he’s weak defensively?
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 1:26 PM EDT up reply actions
Yes
Because he won’t learn unless when he googles his name he sees the comments.
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by PPP on Sep 22, 2010 1:27 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
I love you, man.
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by puckurgently on Sep 22, 2010 1:28 PM EDT up reply actions
Well now it all makes sense.
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by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 1:28 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m not sure how that first goal can be blamed on Kaberle. The puck bounces off the boards, goes through four guys, one of them the Leafs d-men on the right side of the net. What was Kaberle supposed to do? He turned around on the play, and while he certainly didn’t rush the net with abandon, what were you expecting? That Kaberle would level the guy before he put in his own rebound? That Kaberle would dive to the ground and hope to stop the first goal of a meaningless preseason game with his face?
I open my Twitter feed and I see Chemmy’s “OH FOR FUCK’S SAKES ANOTHER SEASON OF KABERLE.”
Yeah. Fun times ahead.
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Kaberle could have stood in front of the net which would have prevented the rebound. He wasn’t in a position to do anything.
He’s not even in position to catch a pass from behind the net, he’s standing on the side of the net.
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He wasn’t in position because he didn’t think the puck would squirt through three guys off the boards and end up right in front of the net.
Who on that whack assed play was in position?
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Lebda. Brown. Gustavsson. Hanson. Rosehill.
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Lebda, the defenceman who let the puck squirt through him and in front of the net?
Got it, bro.
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He was in position, and the puck taking a bounce is a lot different than not being in position for that to even happen to you.
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Circles make me dizzy
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Lebda takes his man out of the play. Brown took his man, who should have been Kaberle’s man, out of the the play.
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
Clearly that’s what we’re all saying.
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In the Dark Ages, the rulers hated guys who took careful observations and made claims which were opposed to their own too. Despite those rulers’ efforts, we know today that the Earth does in fact revolve around the Sun.
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
Brown didn’t take his man. He switched off. His man is the third guy in. That was Winchester.
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
You’re just an anti-semite.
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by puckurgently on Sep 22, 2010 2:00 PM EDT up reply actions
hehehe
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by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 2:08 PM EDT up reply actions
Brown did not switch off in a vacuum. The other option was that he blindly cover Winchester and then Keller scores (ie Kaberle’s man) in which case you pretzels would need another reason why it wasn’t in any way whatsoever Kaberle’s fault.
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If you watch the video, the feed from behind the net, Brown commits to going behind the net before Kaberle peels off.
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
Where he ties up Kaberle’s man.
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...
50 sec mark. This is the moment Brown looks over to see where Kaberle is. I can’t see inside Brown’s head, but either decided to switch off or go after the puck. Kaberle has not peeled off his man yet.
You can see it again at 1:07. Brown looks over and Kaberle is still there. Brown then commits to going behind the net. He does not react to Kaberle leaving his man.
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
Kaberle did screw up by going to the side of the net, but Brown didn’t pick up Kaberle’s due to Kaberle peeling off.
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
You’re judging intent by where Brown glances. He’s playing the center role there and is in the slot near the play where he should be.
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Did you expect Kaberle to follow his man, the man Brown picked up, behind the net? So that both Lebda and Kaberle were behind the net on Gustavsson’s one side?
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No. Kaberle should be about three steps in front of the goal line.
He should be in front of the net ready to respond to pressure there or at least to swat away a rebound.
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The fact remains that no one tied up Winchester in the slot and Put Burns is disgusted by this.
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
I think we are all forgetting one big components of this. I don’t recall Gustavsson’s paddle being down, had he done that, no goal
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He makes a save and the puck rebounds out to the slot where Winchester gets it untouched and shoots again moving left to right.
Gustavsson blew it on the next goal but the first isn’t his fault.
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Right there he is goal side of Winchester. Right place to be.
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My point is that Brown didn’t cover Keller because he realized Kaberle had backed off. I doubt he even realized Kaberle had gone to the side of the net until the goal was scored.
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
Except he saw Keller streak by him, he doesn’t need to know where Kaberle is to know there’s an uncovered guy ahead of him. He’s in the right place on the ice and makes the right play.
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Keller doesn’t cut in front of Brown until they’re a step from the goal line. He has no idea that Keller is uncovered when he commits to going behind the net. I’m not absolving Kaberle. I’m taking issue with the idea that Brown switched onto Keller because he saw Kaberle screw up.
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
Brown is in the proper position. We’re not saying he anticipated Kaberle’s brain cramp. He was in the right position and was able to react in time precisely because he was in the correct position. If Kaberle had done his job he would have turned around and tied up Winchester because he was in the right position and clearly able to make the right decision.
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Is this the right time to point out that it’s actually Lebda’s man who passes the puck to the slot?
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
No, but it is the right time to point out that after the shot on net that Gustavsson deflects to the board that Lebda’s man doesn’t touch the puck again. Look at his stick, it’s up around his shoulders because Lebda has lifted it.
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
He took someone at least. That was the right play on the fly by Brown but someone is going to remain uncovered when a player releases his check and doesn’t go after anyone.
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Brown is forced to take Kaberle’s man or else he’d be all alone on the side of the net where the puck if. He’s takes the open man who is both closest to the puck and the net. It’s the right move by Brown.
In fact that little play makes me think more highly of Brown as a good two-way player as he quickly and correctly determined what to do with a blown coverage play.
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
In conclusion:
Brown is awesome. And Kaberle sucks.
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On that play?
Yeah.
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I’d feel better if Brown played on the Marlies than on the Leafs.
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This conversation has been done to death in the FTB. This one is about Kaberle’s PP failings ;)
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He’s a PP quarterback and shouldn’t be judged on his sometimes questionable defensive play. Oh wait, we are talking about his PP play here. Never mind….
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
Chemmy made a good point last night about how even when he fakes a shot no one bites because they know it’s not coming on the powerplay when it could be effective.
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He also made the same point above ;)
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by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 1:23 PM EDT up reply actions
Sometimes I am guilty of commenting early.
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The cross crease passes tended to just fly through with no one getting their stick on it, like you said the guy either needs to be in front of the net, or behind it. Standing to the side does nothing.
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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Sep 22, 2010 1:20 PM EDT reply actions
like you said the guyeitherneeds to be in front of the net, or behind it.Standing to the side does nothing.
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
Even if they connected the player is out of position.
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That’s what I said, isn’t it?
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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Sep 22, 2010 1:43 PM EDT up reply actions
Armstrong or whoever definitely needs to be in front of the net.
For the cross crease pass to work the far side guy has to be closer but the guy on the end line has to make a quicker decision. A few times the pass was there or the guy in the middle could have had a shot but the guy with the puck (often Armstrong) was just too slow in reacting.
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i’m leaning towards “or whoever” when the actual PP units are together.
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 1:48 PM EDT up reply actions
I read the Flames are experimenting with Jokinen. Maybe we toss Schenn out there.
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They’re experimenting with using a forward on the power play as a forward? That’s just crazy enough to work.
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not just any forward
This is my BOZAK!!!1
by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 1:52 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
This never fails to make me smile.
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by Cornelius Hardenbergh on Sep 22, 2010 1:55 PM EDT up reply actions
Ummm
I meant Bouwmeester in front of the net and Jokinen on the point.
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oh
that’s less funny.
he’s still young, wouldn’t hurt to experiment with a big body in front of the net.
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 1:57 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah, I got interrupted mid-thought.
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For some reason I feel like being mean to you today.
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by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 2:09 PM EDT up reply actions
Wearing leather boots?
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
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New Special teams coach needed to run PP
I think we should get skinnyfish to run the PP! He dissected the PP like Grabbo destroys pineapples!
Yeah, let’s hold off on giving me a new title. Just pointing out some glaring problems that are easily fixed through practice, and thankfully this is the pre-season so last night didn’t mean jack squat.
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
Except for Kaberle sucking.
Because, you know, he fucking sucks.
A Toronto sports blog, where unabashed homerism is alive and well...
whenever you get out to CA again, you must let me buy you a beer…
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 1:53 PM EDT up reply actions
We’re not allowed to point out a player doing something wrong when it’s Kaberle, got it.
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I’m glad we’re finally on the same fucking page.
A Toronto sports blog, where unabashed homerism is alive and well...
'the same fucking page'
The PP Sutra?
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a new word just entered my vernacular
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 1:57 PM EDT up reply actions
Are Phaneuf and Armstrong fair game? Cause I single them out as well.
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
They’re cool. Everyone except Kaberle, you know that. You’re smart, you know your hockey, you’re a Red Wings fan.
A Toronto sports blog, where unabashed homerism is alive and well...
by eyebleaf on Sep 22, 2010 1:58 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I pointed out that Phaneuf blew two plays that led to goals and Gustavsson and Rynnas each have a bad goal to their name.
I think you’re out of line suggesting that my saying Kaberle blew one play that led to a goal is a symptom of bias to be honest.
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No, I simply disagree with you. I don’t think that goal is Kaberle’s fault. You call that bias. I call it your Kaberle hatred bias.
A Toronto sports blog, where unabashed homerism is alive and well...
Whose fault is that goal? Have you been to the other thread where there are 300 comments on the frame by frame breakdown of the goal?
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I don’t give a rats ass if there are 300,000 comments. I disagree.
A Toronto sports blog, where unabashed homerism is alive and well...
Well who can argue with that?
No really, who? You’re just saying “nuh uh” in the face of a pretty reasonable argument.
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Don’t we have a rule about this?
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 2:10 PM EDT up reply actions
#5
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
Probably should be applied in this case.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 2:13 PM EDT up reply actions
what post was that again? Where we had the rules?
Fairweather fans can go to hell
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some FTB
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 2:17 PM EDT up reply actions
The PPP101 post from like 2 days ago.
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They’re in there too?
Huh.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 2:19 PM EDT up reply actions
WHOA WHOA WHOA
there are rules now…?
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 2:20 PM EDT up reply actions
No no. The one skinny did
Fairweather fans can go to hell
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It’s linked in there.
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psssh
Fairweather fans can go to hell
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Follow me on twitter: leafer1984
although I’m in agreement with this analysis on this play re: Kaberle, playing the innocent victim and acting as if you’ve not had an axe to grind re: Kaberle for at least a year now is dishonest.
you don’t like him, and you’ve done a great job of outlining a deficiency in his game last night, that has occurred frequently enough to be a worrisome trend.
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 2:01 PM EDT up reply actions
It’s not an axe. It’s a glaring deficiency that rears it’s face in every game.
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you’ve done a great job of outlining a deficiency in his game last night, that has occurred frequently enough to be a worrisome trend.
my issue is more with the “who me?” response to eyebleaf’s statement that Kaberle isn’t liked by some folks. I don’t think we’re being completely honest here is all.
but fuck Switzerland, that’s not interesting… :)
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 2:04 PM EDT up reply actions
I WANT Kaberle to get a great defenceman but if he’s not I’m not going to pretend otherwise.
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If you think I have an axe to grind with Kaberle that’s fine, I’m not his biggest fan but I think my critique of him is ground in fact.
There are many more people here who wouldn’t assign blame to Kaberle no matter what proof was presented and I don’t feel that I need to be accused of having bias in my analysis by them.
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and
i agree, your critique is grounded in fact. got no problems with it.
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 2:08 PM EDT up reply actions
Additionally if Phaneuf keeps up the “wave at people going by him” and “never hitting the net” I’m sure I’ll be accused of being biased against Phaneuf in three months.
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If I point out specific examples and we don’t all agree that I’m hallucinating I think it’s bizarre to suggest that because it happens a lot I’m biased rather than it being a problem with Kaberle.
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you’ve done a great job of outlining a deficiency in his game last night, that has occurred frequently enough to be a worrisome trend.
you’ve also been saying things like “LOL Kaberle” for about as long as I’ve been coming here. Sorry, merely pointing out how your position can be viewed. Are you saying that you like Kaberle then?
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 2:06 PM EDT up reply actions
I’d love Kaberle if he’d do little things in his own end. I agree with everyone that we need him to be an elite puck mover to make the playoffs but goals against is a huge problem for us and I think Kaberle could improve in that area without something drastic.
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maybe. he’s 32, so i don’t know what “drastic” means for him when it comes to changing his game. I think the general made a great point when he stated that we don’t even know what Wilson’s directions were re: Kaberle’s position on the ice.
your statement here is far more open and agreeable than:
We’re not allowed to point out a player doing something wrong when it’s Kaberle, got it.
This is my BOZAK!!!1
by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 2:11 PM EDT up reply actions
Wilson’s directions should be – cover the man standing alone in front of the net, and never – cheat for an early breakout pass.
If it is cheat, then Wilson talks a lot of smack about defensive responsibility.
BS
by MapleLeafMole on Sep 22, 2010 3:34 PM EDT up reply actions
in simple terms: you pick on him.
i love the analysis you and skinny did. but if this new analysis ends up being 50% focused on kaberle blunders, i won’t be reading.
Yesterday is dead, but not my memory.
The good news is that even Kaberle’s not 100% responsible for 50% of GA so there’s no way it’ll be that much.
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In simpler terms: left with no defense for a rational argument about something that we all watched you’ve resorted to saying I’m mean and I pick on people.
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well
You do sometimes like to be mean and pick on people.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 3:37 PM EDT up reply actions
sometimes is being pretty diplomatic.
On the Mike Weber bandwagon.
Everything wrong with the Sabres is Drew Stafford's fault.
by Ubiquitous on Sep 22, 2010 3:38 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
who recd that comment!?!
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 3:40 PM EDT up reply actions
So you can make stereotypical arguments against Chemmy to void his take on matters; yet even though I don’t believe he is, he can’t make stereotypical arguments against Kaberle’s play.
Got it. Thanks.
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
Seriously?
People need to start giving other people benefit of the doubt.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 3:41 PM EDT up reply actions
you ever notice how black people drive like this?
“doop de doop bah bah”
but white people drive like this?
“dee dee dert dert dee”
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Sep 22, 2010 3:42 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
just when things get a little too tense… J comes to the rescue
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"
by Matt_Roberts on Sep 22, 2010 3:55 PM EDT up reply actions
That’s a massive rec for comic relief
BS
by MapleLeafMole on Sep 22, 2010 4:12 PM EDT up reply actions
The correct answer is “Sure chemmy is a jerk but that doesn’t change the fact that Kaberle sucks at defense”
On the Mike Weber bandwagon.
Everything wrong with the Sabres is Drew Stafford's fault.
by Ubiquitous on Sep 22, 2010 3:42 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
please note that I’m not necesserily saying this is one of those times (I don’t think it is.)
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 3:43 PM EDT up reply actions
nope.
i actually like the analysis and don’t disagree that kaberle was to blame for the first goal (or at least partly to blame).
i’m just saying that i hope your obvious and well-documented dislike for kaberle doesn’t lead you to focusing on his mistakes at a disproportionate rate to the mistakes of the team as a whole.
do we ever need a group hug or what????
Yesterday is dead, but not my memory.
We might.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Sep 22, 2010 3:46 PM EDT up reply actions
I’ll hug it out with you
Fairweather fans can go to hell
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I guess I just don’t get all of the calls that I’m unfairly singling out Kaberle. I think I assessed blame for goals to four players, Kaberle’s is just the most visually interesting.
Phaneuf / Gustavsson on goal #2: Phaneuf pinches and lets his man by. That man floats a softie past Gustavsson glove side.
Phaneuf / Rynnas on goal #5: Phaneuf pinches and lets his man by. That man floats a softie past Rynnas blocker side.
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I think it’s more because of the tweet that went along the lines of “oh great another year of Kaberle”
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I’m listening to the most recent Bloge Salming podcast and the guest, Gus someone or other, suggests that Kaberle is a good pick in a pool where you get power play points because you can get two categories in one with this high scoring power play specialist. Interesting given the article here…
by Leaf in Habland on Sep 22, 2010 2:06 PM EDT reply actions
Based on the second half of last year I wouldn’t pick Kaberle on the PP to be honest. Phaneuf’s not helping him.
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nor is how Wilson seems to use him.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 2:11 PM EDT up reply actions
This early in the preseason I’m mainly worried about bad habits from last year that I don’t want to see continue. Phaneuf’s shot missing, Kaberle’s own zone play, tonight we’ll probably see the Phil Kessel powerplay extravaganza while wishing we were dead.
Systems work will come with time. If Phaneuf hit the net 6 times in his 10 attempts rather than 2 there’s a good chance he scores a goal and we talk about how Kaberle and Phaneuf looked great last night dropping bombs on the net.
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It would be nice if we could take advantage of the other teams’ pre-season rust for once. But whatever. Completely different team tonight. Completely different powerplay that hasn’t been practiced. Hopefully there is at least some execution on an individual level.
by Leaf in Habland on Sep 22, 2010 2:15 PM EDT up reply actions
This is a crazy thought for the PP: what about Irwin in front of the net?
1. He has a good wrist shot.
2. He won’t need to skate so that doesn’t count against him.
3. He’s gigantic.
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Try it, he an Meuller would be that type of blob.
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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Sep 22, 2010 2:15 PM EDT up reply actions
That’s another decent idea: two big bodies in front of the net if our plan is to just fire hard slapshots. Crowd it up, shoot low and hard.
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With Phaneuf shooting we might have two guys with no heads.
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I’m willing to lose Irwin and Mueller to this.
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Can’t make an omelet without cracking a few eggs.
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
by SkinnyFish on Sep 22, 2010 2:19 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
they got those new skate protectors and face shields.. fire away
Colton Orr will pound you into a million stuff
by Future_considerations on Sep 22, 2010 2:20 PM EDT up reply actions
I’d rather it be Irwin and Caputi.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 2:20 PM EDT up reply actions
I see it being, PP1 Phaneuf launching bombs from the point with Versteeg out there to deflect some attention.
PPII: cross crease pass to no one.
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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Sep 22, 2010 2:19 PM EDT up reply actions
I still think we should just recruit some behemoth from a Manitoba beer league.
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by puckurgently on Sep 22, 2010 2:16 PM EDT up reply actions
isnt that where we got Iriwn?
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Sep 22, 2010 2:59 PM EDT up reply actions
NCAA!
But I think that’s where Dustin Penner came from.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 3:01 PM EDT up reply actions
That would require a coaching decision to send someone to the front of the net. Do you think Wilson just figures, hey, these guys are hockey players, so “go to the front of the net” isn’t something he needs to tell them?
by Leaf in Habland on Sep 22, 2010 2:16 PM EDT up reply actions
I’d say “it’s just preseason” but our power play has sucked for a long time independent of the personnel.
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that third point is a big one (no pun intended…)
Leafs need some one with size to create traffic/screen the goalie.
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 2:17 PM EDT up reply actions
Get out of my head.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 2:17 PM EDT up reply actions
I kinda thought that’s what Burke got him for.
Don’t have wheels? You can be an obstacle in front of the net and bang in rebounds.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Sep 22, 2010 2:25 PM EDT up reply actions
This is Madness
1. it was the 1st preseason game after 2 practices. people need to chill. they’re playing again tonight, if they win 5-0 (with a different team) it will mean the exact same thing. Nothing.
2. this was not Toronto vs. Ottawa, it was more like Marlies vs. Binghampton. so they lost 5-0, big deal.
3. Kaberle is a great defencemen, an all star defencemen. just like Larry Murphy is an Hall of Fame defenceman. Leaf fans should be happy to have him and not so eagar to give him away! Like they did with Murphy.
4. I’m 100% sure that Ron Wilson knows more about an NHL powerplay than you know about a Squirt powerplay.
Welcome
Thanks for joining.
1. Same problems as last season
2. Same problems as last season
3. Great offensive defenceman? yes.
4. It would be nice if he started proving it. Last year’s PP was ranked 30th. Say what you will about comparisons to squirt hockey but I bet you could coach the Leafs’ to 30th in the league.
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check your site email
Fairweather fans can go to hell
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I love you but if you aren’t going to accept that Kaberle is going to get carved up, alongside every Leaf that makes grievous mistakes that lead to goals, then I am going to talk to my cousin the doctor to prescribe you heart pills.
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Yes
That too although I feel like that might make your Kaberle Persecution Complex worse because pot can make people paranoid.
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Blame Kaberle. He’s the one not changing.
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How will cocaine make things better?
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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Sep 22, 2010 2:28 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
HEHEHE
win
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 2:29 PM EDT up reply actions
it was the 1st preseason game after 2 practices. people need to chill.
Over/Under on when this becomes:
It was the 5th game of the year. people need to chill
?
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4.5
Fairweather fans can go to hell
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Follow me on twitter: leafer1984
I’ll take the under.
Yes. That’s right.
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by puckurgently on Sep 22, 2010 2:30 PM EDT up reply actions
it was the 5th game of the year (2011)
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 2:30 PM EDT up reply actions
4) Squirt power play. Get the puck to our one good kid and shoot high because the goalie is 6 inches shorter than the goal.
I think we had like a 40% PP conversion rate last season. I’m a fucking genius.
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
hahaha that’s a great name
also sure but at least people are passionate. I’ll take people jumping off bridges after 1 preseason loss over “What, we have a hockey team?”
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 2:27 PM EDT up reply actions
No one’s jumping off a bridge because they pointed out a problem.
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by Chemmy on Sep 22, 2010 2:28 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
They mutually inclusive.
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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Sep 22, 2010 2:29 PM EDT up reply actions
I haven’t heard a single person say “fuck this team” yet. It’s the first chance we’ve had to discuss real hockey since April. We’re over-zealous.
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
fuck this team
Colton Orr will pound you into a million stuff
by Future_considerations on Sep 22, 2010 2:31 PM EDT up reply actions
yea!!!1
Colton Orr will pound you into a million stuff
by Future_considerations on Sep 22, 2010 2:33 PM EDT up reply actions
he is rather pretty
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 2:35 PM EDT up reply actions
From what I’ve seen, the ratio of responses to doomsaying to actual doomsaying is infinite at this stage.
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by puckurgently on Sep 22, 2010 2:31 PM EDT up reply actions
not what I’m talking about
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 2:29 PM EDT up reply actions
i feel dirty saying this, but i miss arguing about SPC’s…
nobody got hurt by an SPC argument. :(
This is my BOZAK!!!1
by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 2:32 PM EDT up reply actions
Except maybe Joel Champagne.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Sep 22, 2010 2:32 PM EDT up reply actions
Except the people we hated on for taking up one for no explicable reason.
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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Sep 22, 2010 2:32 PM EDT up reply actions
so excited to see him play tonight.
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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Sep 22, 2010 2:37 PM EDT up reply actions
See Florida
Gudbranson and Markstrom were apparently brilliant, and nobody cares
by Holidays in the Sundin on Sep 22, 2010 2:43 PM EDT up reply actions
Perhaps
eyebeleaf, myself and others are overly sensitive when it comes to criticism of Kaberle, but here’s why: I’m not gonna link it but this was a comment in a Toronto Sun article that was more about the Fans First experience then it was about the game, from 8:25am this morning:
Boy Kaberle looked sparkling last night—NOT!!! All his supporters where r u now?
HIs terrible play from the opening faceoff, into the first few minutes (causinggoals against) should shut you all up. He looks lost in front of his own net as always.
We put up with a lot of this shit last year. And now, after one meaningless preseason game, we’re back at it. Criticism of Kabby’s defensive play, while fair at times, tends to attract a certain audience of troll-like behaviour from the worst members of Leaf Nation and it can snowball pretty quickly into unfair bashing and piling on and it’s really frustrating when troglodytes think they’re the majority opinion.
I also take exception to anyone crticisizing Kabby with smug satisfaction. If Kabby is playing poorly, that’s not satisfying. It’s disappointing. Some people, I think, are more concerned with being right then they are with Kabby’s success.
by general borschevsky on Sep 22, 2010 2:35 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
This feels like Toskala Redux. I hope it’s not but it’s basically been a year building to it.
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oh god that’s my worst nightmare
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 2:37 PM EDT up reply actions
Don’t ever compare Kaberle to Toskala!!!
"That’s why stats are so important – anecdotal evidence just doesn’t cut it when you’re talking about history." - Bower Power
by The '67 Sound on Sep 22, 2010 2:37 PM EDT up reply actions
we take a year or so to break in our whipping boys.
Loving the Leafs is like being in love with a drug-addled, gambling addicted prostitute with a heart of gold and a bunch of humanitarian awards from her youth. It’s hard. It hurts. But dammit! I just love them!
by Van Ryn's Neurologist on Sep 22, 2010 2:38 PM EDT up reply actions
not really
I don’t think Kaberle is capable of playing so poorly that it would be described as “historically bad”
I think that it’s a topic that needs to be quantified, out of respect for a lot of people’s feelings on the player. Some people think with their heart (i’m a feeler…) when it comes to the Leafs.
Did Kabby goof on a play last night? Yes. Does it look bad? Yes. Is it open to interpretation? Depends on who you ask. The naysayers say no, the Kabby fans say yes.
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 2:39 PM EDT up reply actions
No, the Kabby fans are saying there is no interpretation: he is 0% done.
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i guess i’m seeing it differently since it’s been pointed out that nobody knows what the direction was to the players on “that play”…
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 2:44 PM EDT up reply actions
It doesn’t matter where Brown’s head is turned. It’s a red herring. The fact is that he is in position and he is covering Keller because he was well placed to see Kaberle blow his coverage.
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nobody knows what the direction was to the players
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 2:46 PM EDT up reply actions
I can guarantee it wasn’t sit by the side of the net and be the first to see the puck go in.
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ANYONE CALLS TOMAS DOGSHIT AND WE ARE DONE.
Fuck Toskala. Never did shit for Toronto.
Approaching Maple Leaf milestones for Kaberle this season include surpassing Ron Stewart (9th all-time) and Darryl Sittler (8th) for games played; Iafrate, McCabe, and Hap Day could all be caught for goals-scored by a defenceman; will likely pass George Armstrong for 5th in all-time assists; and could possibly catch Rick Vaive for tenth spot all-time in Leafs scoring.
I know your hearts are cold and black but CUT HIM SOME FRICKIN’ SLACK!
by general borschevsky on Sep 22, 2010 2:41 PM EDT up reply actions
Also important to note:
Kaberle is the second(or third) best offensive defencemen in the history of the maple leafs.
Its just be nicer if he shot as much as he did when he was in a Czech jersey and had an even plus/minus. I guess you guys are all just greedy though.
On the Mike Weber bandwagon.
Everything wrong with the Sabres is Drew Stafford's fault.
2nd. Ahead of Tim Horton, behind only Borje Salming.
by general borschevsky on Sep 22, 2010 2:44 PM EDT up reply actions
I don’t mean calling him dogshit I mean in that one side is defending him to the death and is going to be (and really already has) been proven dead wrong.
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Man, I remember that Toskala post Chemmy did early last year. I’ve forgotten who the defenders were, and don’t want to be reminded, but I remember being amazed back then.
I take your point but the relative levels of play are just so far apart. Kaberle’s still a useful NHL player. He’s just not an all star anymore. I think he should be a third pair, PP specialist type.
"That’s why stats are so important – anecdotal evidence just doesn’t cut it when you’re talking about history." - Bower Power
by The '67 Sound on Sep 22, 2010 2:48 PM EDT up reply actions
i was a defender
but i’m fairly certain i wasn’t one of the amazing ones.
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 2:49 PM EDT up reply actions
See there’s another side though.
A side that thinks people should adjust their expectations for his defensive play so that reactions are a bit less damning.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 2:49 PM EDT up reply actions
We’ve adjusted our expectations but we can’t write about the game and pretend mistakes didn’t happen can we?
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Nope.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 2:55 PM EDT up reply actions
Exactly
Why do we hold Kabby to Beachemin or Komisarek’s defensive standards but not the other way around? Why not moan and complain and point out that really bad pass or how these players have no ability to move the puck through the nuetral zone? There’s a million mistakes in a sixty minute game you can zero in on.
by general borschevsky on Sep 22, 2010 3:11 PM EDT up reply actions
There is a million mistakes.
I love Kaberle. I don’t want him to go anywhere, but be a Leaf. Shit I even thought he should be captain at one point.
I fear this is just the first session in Skinny’s “coaches corner” and Kaberle got picked on.
If Kabs continues to get shit on in this feature – than I think there will be a problem.
BS
by MapleLeafMole on Sep 22, 2010 3:15 PM EDT up reply actions
Skinny’s whole article was about the powerplay.
A discussion about the first goal from the FTB got dragged in here.
I don’t understand why if there is a million mistakes in a game then why are people taking a criticism about Kaberle so personally?
Expecting Kaberle to be in the correct position for a defenceman isn’t holding him to Beauchemin’s standards. I’d expect Beauchemin, Kaberle, Lashoff or Blacker to be in the correct position on that play because it’s not something a defensive defenceman is known for; it’s Defence 101.
Resident Capologist
would it have received the same level of analysis if the player was Beauchemin?
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 3:23 PM EDT up reply actions
honestly, I dont think it would have
Fairweather fans can go to hell
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and that’s the crux of the issue.
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 3:25 PM EDT up reply actions
Frog wings.
Bring that up when Beauchemin leaves the front of the net open.
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by puckurgently on Sep 22, 2010 3:25 PM EDT up reply actions
I can honestly say I will criticize the fuck the out of any defender who leaves a man alone in front of the net.
I don’t care if it’s the captain, longest serving Leaf, Defender paid big money to be a defensive specialist, Rookie, or otherwise.
Can’t speak for anyone else, but try me.
BS
by MapleLeafMole on Sep 22, 2010 3:40 PM EDT up reply actions
Maybe “criticize the fuck out of” was a little over the top
BS
by MapleLeafMole on Sep 22, 2010 3:41 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I saw Lashoff and Lebda blow their coverage last night but as they’re not technically Leafs in my eyes I don’t care.
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If either of these guys are blowing defensive coverage for the Leafs, I’m going to rip into them
BS
by MapleLeafMole on Sep 22, 2010 4:25 PM EDT up reply actions
No
Because if Chemmy correctly said that Beauchemin shit the bed people would fucking accept that his mistake was largely to blame for the goal against.
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by PPP on Sep 22, 2010 3:26 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Let me amend that
If Chemmy does these posts breaking down goals I GUARANTEE that no one’s mistakes will be defended as stridently as Kaberle’s.
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try one with BOZAK and find out
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 3:28 PM EDT up reply actions
and I agree with this statement.
We all know Chemmy doesn’t like Kaberle and will fully show every error he makes whenever he can.
However, most people around here are quick to defend him, rightfully or wrongly, more than most players.
Both parties strongly support their stance and good for them
Fairweather fans can go to hell
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i gotta go get me some lunch.
This is my BOZAK!!!1
by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 3:32 PM EDT up reply actions
I am eating soup for lunch.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 3:32 PM EDT up reply actions
dont make vulgar comments about fergus like that
Fairweather fans can go to hell
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PPP below
Kaberle feels like he’s singled out because the people that are able to admit he fucked up won’t let the people that refuse to admit it get away with shifting or absolving him of blame. So instead of "yeah, he was bad on that play" we get 600 comments of back and forth whereas in the other examples people say "yeah, he’s got to work on that."
It started with he fucked up; then the naysayers said no; so it progressed to a more analytical discussion.
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
Were people saying he didn’t fuck up, or saying “here you go attacking Kaberle again”?
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
that's where you're wrong
the issue is that Kaberle is being singled out as the cause for everyone’s fuck ups, and i’m not saying he wasn’t. but you’re not seeing where other people are coming from, hence the circular arguements…
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 3:31 PM EDT up reply actions
In the FTB and this thread the following players were called out: Phaneuf, Kaberle, Rynnas, Wilson, Lebda, Gunnar, Armstrong, Hanson, and others.
Where’s the outrage over everyone but Kaberle?
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
read my comment again
Kaberle is being singled out as the cause
sure, Hanson gets called out for whatever, or Lebda, but that’s quickly brushed away because of Kaberle’s actions, which are deemed the catalyst.
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 3:40 PM EDT up reply actions
I’ve called out Phaneuf at least ten times since last night without providing evidence; no problem.
Gustavsson and Rynnas: no problem.
Good evidence for why something Kaberle did was bad: I’m showing my “bias”.
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i had a problem with the Rynaas bashing festival last night. it was a little over the top.
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 3:42 PM EDT up reply actions
Yea dude is playing in his 2nd North American game.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Sep 22, 2010 3:43 PM EDT up reply actions
SEND HIM TO THE ECHL
ugh…
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 3:44 PM EDT up reply actions
who said that?
Fairweather fans can go to hell
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Not sure it’s that crazy. Gustavsson and Giguere are with the Leafs, Reimer earned another go in the AHL so that leaves Scrivens, Rynnas and Engelage fighting for the backup AHL job.
I think talent wise and ceiling wise I’d rank them Rynnas – Scrivens – Engelage, but he has a lot to show at camp and if the other pair play lights out I wouldn’t be shocked to see Rynnas in the ECHL.
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If he plays in reading, he doesn’t get Allaires coaching. He is playing with the Marlies IMO
Fairweather fans can go to hell
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Why? Because he came here to be with Allaire?
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I hear they were talking about getting a little place on yonge
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Sep 22, 2010 3:51 PM EDT up reply actions
My point being that Scrivens and Engelage came here to be with Allaire.
That’s not a consideration for where they play.
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Scrivens came here for Allaire even though he knew full well there 4 goalies ahead of him on the depth chart.
Resident Capologist
That’s what I’m getting at.
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You’re right. My point was off. I concede
Fairweather fans can go to hell
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I’ve been seeing it for weeks at other places. We’re not giving people jobs. I think Rynnas can win the job but if he doesn’t win it he IS in fact going to the ECHL or back to Finland I guess.
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he played 12 minutes…
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 4:31 PM EDT up reply actions
Remember that Reading also serves the Bruins so whoever gets sent there would need to fight them for spots.
Unless we send our goalies to finland. Which I support, mostly just to drink the finnish goalie god water.
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by Cornelius Hardenbergh on Sep 22, 2010 3:52 PM EDT up reply actions
I wouldn’t demote him based on last night, but the spot he’s competing for is Marlies backup. It’s not a huge exaggeration if he underperforms.
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by puckurgently on Sep 22, 2010 3:47 PM EDT up reply actions
Right. I’m not saying “he’s ECHL fodder” but
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you very well could be right tho, he may head to Reading. It’s a race that is very close. Lets see how Reimer/Scrivens do tonite
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I don’t have any opinion on where he’ll end up yet so it would be hard to be right.
I think Rynnas sticks with the Marlies but what if Scrivens throws a 40 shot shutout tonight?
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Lets see how Reimer/Scrivens do tonite
Fairweather fans can go to hell
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off topic.
point is, i did have a problem with it, said my peace and that was that.
Folks in support of Kabby in this instance have said theirs. Instead of leaving it be, it became a pissing match.
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 3:45 PM EDT up reply actions
Again, I think we need context. I don’t fault Rynnas for the first two goals. They were passing plays around the net with blown coverage by our D and him adjusting to angles.
The third goal over his blocker from outside was awful. Doesn’t matter what rink he’s used to.
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I think it hit a players stick in front of the net, then changed direction off a weird bounce and he had no chance
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Sep 22, 2010 3:47 PM EDT up reply actions
Rynaas only let in two. Gustavsson let in three.
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by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 3:47 PM EDT up reply actions
Other way around, Rynnas got in net and Locke scored within a few minutes.
Bobby Ryan...can he be acquired?
blurr1974: No.
by Chris Stoikoff on Sep 22, 2010 3:48 PM EDT up reply actions
correct, Gus had the Winchester and Foglino goals
Rynnas had the other three
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Sep 22, 2010 3:49 PM EDT up reply actions
He was on the blue paint, prolly playing the pass too much
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You’ve hammered away at Kaberle in the past, often for good reason. But there are a lot of people who really like the guy, and see your fairly frequent criticism of his play as a bias against him. Thus, days like today happen. I don’t think you’re biased against the guy, but I could see how someone might come to that conclusion.
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
Bias would be if I critiqued his plays for reasons having nothing to do with his play.
Critiquing his play based on demonstrable examples of his play isn’t biased in any way.
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im shocked that youve had to repeat this 1000×.... seriously. whats so hard to understand?
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"
by Matt_Roberts on Sep 22, 2010 4:02 PM EDT up reply actions
chemmy, to me, is just calling it as he sees it. and im seeing it the same way to be honest..
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"
by Matt_Roberts on Sep 22, 2010 4:03 PM EDT up reply actions
Every team needs a scapegoat
Drew Stafford was blamed for losing playoff games he didn’t even play in.
(Disclaimer: it was still his fault for playing so badly he got benched. Loser.)
On the Mike Weber bandwagon.
Everything wrong with the Sabres is Drew Stafford's fault.
To be fair,
I felt Brown effed up by leaving Winchester alone in front of the net, and following the play behind the net.
Entering the zone on the back check, Brown was the third man back, and Winchester was the third offensive player high.
If Brown sticks with his man, and Kaberle decides to cheat, then it’s likely Lebda and 2 Sens behind the net and Winchester covered in front.
BS
by MapleLeafMole on Sep 22, 2010 3:45 PM EDT up reply actions
You’re right it did get dragged in here. And me with it.
Initially Chemmy posted a breakdown of Kaberle’s play a la coaches corner in the FTB.
BS
by MapleLeafMole on Sep 22, 2010 3:38 PM EDT up reply actions
Though i agree with “Kaberle sucks at defense” it still really annoys me that people think he should have been positioned close to Winchester when that was literally the worst place he could have been.
He should have been 2-3 feet closer to the blue line from where he was standing.
On the Mike Weber bandwagon.
Everything wrong with the Sabres is Drew Stafford's fault.
What?
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If he covers Winchester, then you have your whole team on the same side of the net. If the puck goes literally anywhere on the other side of the ice, whatever senators defensemen that is off screen has an easy goal.
On the Mike Weber bandwagon.
Everything wrong with the Sabres is Drew Stafford's fault.
And if he doesn’t cover Winchester, you have a man standing alone in front of the net, who pops in his own rebound.
The Sens defender off screen is covered by Rosehill, who was actually in decent position.
BS
by MapleLeafMole on Sep 22, 2010 3:06 PM EDT up reply actions
He needs to be close enough to both Winchester’s rebound, he has to assume that the goalie will get down in time to block a shot from that (pretty bad) angle.
He also needs to cover the far faceoff circle, and the far end of the net (in case the leafs fail and a senator gets free behind the net for a wraparound. If he stands near Winchester, Winchester will tie him up if the puck goes to the other side of the rink.
He blew his assignment, yes, but its because he cheated towards the back of the net trying to intercept a pass to the point, not because he missed a coverage. The two forechecker’s primary job is to prevent that exact pass from getting off clean.
On the Mike Weber bandwagon.
Everything wrong with the Sabres is Drew Stafford's fault.
I used the word forechecker incorrectly here, but whatever.
On the Mike Weber bandwagon.
Everything wrong with the Sabres is Drew Stafford's fault.
Sorry man, I don’t agree.
There’s 3 Sens (Fwds) on one side of the Goal, and only 2 Leafs.
The 2 pointmen are covered by Hanson and Rosehill.
Kaberle is on the opposite of the net.
You never leave a dude alone in front of the net, regardless of his shooting angle. What happened on that goal, is exactly why you don’t leave dude alone in front of the net.
At this point, we can maybe say Jonas should be yelling at his defender to cover the man alone in front.
I dunno, as a goalie I dreaded having a man wide open in front of the net. We’re talking cardinal sin
BS
by MapleLeafMole on Sep 22, 2010 3:22 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah, Defence 101.
"That’s why stats are so important – anecdotal evidence just doesn’t cut it when you’re talking about history." - Bower Power
by The '67 Sound on Sep 22, 2010 3:23 PM EDT up reply actions
He’s not in front of the net, therefore all kaberle has to do is make sure he can beat Winchester there. All the goalie needs to do from that angle is put his left pad down and hold the post. The puck should then bounce in front of the net where (in theory) Kaberle (or Rosehill) could clear it. This is why they talk so much about “overloading” the side.
As the defensemen option is harder to visualize, the wraparound threat is probably what i should have talked about. He can’t be close to winchester or else winchester would use himself and kaberle to prevent anyone from getting to the other side of the net. (I.E. lightly pushing kaberle in the direction of Brown and then blocking the corner of the crease.)
On the Mike Weber bandwagon.
Everything wrong with the Sabres is Drew Stafford's fault.
We may be arguing similar points, and I’m just having a hard time visualizing what you’re saying. If so, my bad.
I’ll simplify: all Kaberle, or any other defender, needs to do is tie up Winchester’s stick. That’s it. Pat Burns hockey.
The wrap around threat should be negated by the 2 Leafs battling 2 sens behind the net. And Gustavsson. If a Sens breaks free from behind the net, and makes out for wrap around – its a new scenario and we can analyze that to death :P
BS
by MapleLeafMole on Sep 22, 2010 3:57 PM EDT up reply actions
Indeed. i tried to explain it better a couple times, and realized i’d need a whiteboard and to be in the same place as you. We’re talking about the same thing though, with only minor philosophical differences. (I.E. you think he should be closer to the greatest threat, where i think he should be closer to the most probable threat)
On the Mike Weber bandwagon.
Everything wrong with the Sabres is Drew Stafford's fault.
If the puck goes anywhere else it’s not in front of the net where everyone is covered then is it?
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man, the level of analysis on this goal is getting insane
this has all the makings of a very long season
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Sep 22, 2010 3:10 PM EDT up reply actions
i want the leafs game to be over so i can have another goal to look at.
On the Mike Weber bandwagon.
Everything wrong with the Sabres is Drew Stafford's fault.
lets not get hasty, we still have 4 more from last night to pick apart and alienate fans of the player we blame
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Sep 22, 2010 3:15 PM EDT up reply actions
totally agree….
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"
by Matt_Roberts on Sep 22, 2010 3:19 PM EDT up reply actions
Rosehill can cover the Sens D-man, who is the only one over there.
Kabby was cheating. If the pucks squirts behind the net on his side and he’s in front of the net where he should be, it’s a contested battle and he likely gets smushed into the boards before he can get it up to Rosehill. Where he was, he has a nice head start and likely can safely move it up.
"That’s why stats are so important – anecdotal evidence just doesn’t cut it when you’re talking about history." - Bower Power
by The '67 Sound on Sep 22, 2010 3:15 PM EDT up reply actions
Except that player can’t, as he’s facing the wrong way and stationary, while the defensemen is skating full tilt and likely just came off the bench. The Sens burned the penguins on this multiple times in the playoffs.
Of course, the only worse place for Kaberle to stand other than next to Winchester was where he was actually standing.
On the Mike Weber bandwagon.
Everything wrong with the Sabres is Drew Stafford's fault.
I’m just a believer in every player covering his area/man and not running around like chickens with their heads cut off. Which was the Leafs’ strategy last year.
"That’s why stats are so important – anecdotal evidence just doesn’t cut it when you’re talking about history." - Bower Power
by The '67 Sound on Sep 22, 2010 3:22 PM EDT up reply actions
O_o
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
I also take exception to anyone crticisizing Kabby with smug satisfaction. If Kabby is playing poorly, that’s not satisfying. It’s disappointing. Some people, I think, are more concerned with being right then they are with Kabby’s success
That’s a good point. With some players it’s justified, other players get some slack.
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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Sep 22, 2010 2:43 PM EDT up reply actions
Some people, I think, are more concerned with being right then they are with Kabby’s success.
How are these two options connected? Critiquing a player won’t make him play worse. My ignoring Kaberle’s single poor play last night won’t make him play better.
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What'ya gonna do when Kaberlemania runs wild over you?
I honestly think our players will perform better if we support them. I firmly believe fan support can make a difference.
Conversly, if a player feels he’s under a microscope from the fans or will be the lightning rod for controversy if things go poorly, I don’t think that helps. Criticism from fans, (non-objective observers) should be tempered with optimism and support. It’s good to be objective but too much criticism directed at one player has the effect of creating a target for wrath and anger from the unobjective.
by general borschevsky on Sep 22, 2010 4:03 PM EDT up reply actions
rec’d.
i’m hurt i don’t get noted as being overly sensitive about kabby. although i guess you missed the craziness leading up to the trade deadline around here!
Yesterday is dead, but not my memory.
Do it 4 Daoust
I didn’t want to drag you into it but I definitely thought of you.
by general borschevsky on Sep 22, 2010 6:55 PM EDT up reply actions
“We’re not the greatest hockey team there is, and we may very well be the worst”
sorry, I got the wrong impression of your 40% PP.
Use the reply button
Keeps conversations threaded properly.
Thanks.
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More of a comment of how they are a nothing doing squirt team in Connecticut and none of these kids are going to play professional hockey.
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
Good write up and I enjoy this feature…
I liked your suggestions on how to fix the second PP “problem,” by sliding the weak side forward behind the net, and having the weak side defender drop into the high slot. Hoepfully, the development of some chemistry will resolve this, noting who played on the top PP unit.
Perhaps you missed it, but for about the first half of the night Phanuef lined up at the point on his off wing on the PP (the right side)
Made it easier to get his one-timer off, but had no effect on his accuracy.
BS
Yeah, I did notice when they switched him and Kaberle on the PP. That one image of Armstrong being way off to the side as Phaneuf shot just struck me as being really dumb.
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
It was dumb…Should always screen the goalie, stick on the ice, and the shot should be hard and low – for deflections of sticks,skates,shins and to avoid killing your player’s face.
Also, Army’s hands aren’t soft enough to stand off to the side and tip in shots sailing wide.
More of an “accidental” tip type of guy, due to good positioning and keeping his stick on the ice.
BS
by MapleLeafMole on Sep 22, 2010 3:10 PM EDT up reply actions
Look at Holmstrom. Half of his goals are “Oops. Did I do that?”
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
Holmstrom’s entire job on the PP is to obstruct the entire net except for the corner that Lidstrom is shooting at, without getting cleared out by angry defensemen. He’s remarkably skilled at it.
On the Mike Weber bandwagon.
Everything wrong with the Sabres is Drew Stafford's fault.
Plus, he has a rather large ass.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 3:23 PM EDT up reply actions
Phaneuf normally plays the right side and last year he lined up on the right side during PPs. If you’re PP is one timer based, there is no reason to have Phaneuf on the left side.
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
Exactly.
I guess, maybe, if the pass to Phanuef is coming from down low, he can still one time it. But if it’s coming from Kaberle from the right point, yeah it’s awkward to get off
BS
by MapleLeafMole on Sep 22, 2010 3:30 PM EDT up reply actions
the biggest fuck up of the night goes to Phaneuf fluttering his buttocks at Foglino on goal #2
it was very McCabe
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Sep 22, 2010 3:33 PM EDT up reply actions
that one I saw, and it sunk my heart
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 3:34 PM EDT up reply actions
Sure was. I looked like he was going to hammer him, thought better of it, and was then caught flat-footed trying to turn around.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Sep 22, 2010 3:35 PM EDT up reply actions
I also imagine if it weren’t preseason Phaneuf would have just chopped the forward down and took the penalty.
On the Mike Weber bandwagon.
Everything wrong with the Sabres is Drew Stafford's fault.
he didn’t even need to take a penalty
just smash him into the boards
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 3:38 PM EDT up reply actions
I assumed this was after missing the check.
On the Mike Weber bandwagon.
Everything wrong with the Sabres is Drew Stafford's fault.
no he was in full position for the check and then…. nothing.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 3:41 PM EDT up reply actions
My guess is he didn’t want to risk injuring himself.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Sep 22, 2010 3:41 PM EDT up reply actions
weak
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 3:42 PM EDT up reply actions
Oh my yes.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Sep 22, 2010 3:43 PM EDT up reply actions
It’s also really not the statement I’d expect from a player wearing the C in his first game.
I have a feeling this season will end with me not liking Dion and pining for the days of Mats as captain :(
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 3:44 PM EDT up reply actions
ya, i was not a fan of the effort (or lack thereof) put on display by the new team captain.
This is my BOZAK!!!1
by blurr1974 on Sep 22, 2010 3:46 PM EDT up reply actions
Dion’s season starts October 6th.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Sep 22, 2010 3:46 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah I’m really not sure how I feel about veteran players in the preseason.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 3:47 PM EDT up reply actions
I get the whole idea of setting a tone, and it sucks the he got torched, but it would have been worse if he lined him up and blew out his knee.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Sep 22, 2010 3:49 PM EDT up reply actions
I think we have to cut them a small amount of slack considering they have literally no motivation to play well.
They should still play well, but if they get lazy and shy away from the “hard” plays, can you blame them?
If you were a defensemen not worrying about your job and some 6’7" ECHL hulk was barreling at you full blast during the preseason, are you gonna avoid the hit or make the defensive play?
On the Mike Weber bandwagon.
Everything wrong with the Sabres is Drew Stafford's fault.
I disagree.
I think it starts october 7th.
Fairweather fans can go to hell
Equal oppurtunity asshole and a proud member of the PPPPP
Follow me on twitter: leafer1984
I forgot the date, but you get my point.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Sep 22, 2010 3:48 PM EDT up reply actions
I know. I’m only busting them
Fairweather fans can go to hell
Equal oppurtunity asshole and a proud member of the PPPPP
Follow me on twitter: leafer1984
That’s bullshit. He’s our Captain right? He’s the guy who amped up our room right?
He was completely flat all night. He should be ashamed to have worn the C for the Leafs last night.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
Yeah this is how I feel.
Preseason or not, that was the first time he had the C for the Leafs and he sure made it look like he’s nowhere near deserving of it.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 3:53 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m not saying I like it, but I understand him not easing up a little. There’s no excuse for sloppy play, I’m just not losing my shit over it.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Sep 22, 2010 3:54 PM EDT up reply actions
We’re not a team that can afford to turn it on when the time is right.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
I get that, but it’s one game I can understand him not being at 11 for it. If this continues then I’ll get concerned.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Sep 22, 2010 3:59 PM EDT up reply actions
Exactly, Dion showed some compassion and spared him, no excuse on getting caught though but if Foligno doesn’t put it top shelf we’d forget about it.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Sep 22, 2010 3:39 PM EDT up reply actions
there was also another Leaf player between Dion and Foglino at the initial fuck up and it seemed to confuse dion like he thought the Leaf winger had taken the puck from Foglino for a second and he held up.
then Foglino came tearing around the outside and Phaneuf was flat footed and he froze because of surprise, or confusion or just general laziness.
He read the play poorly and paid for it
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Sep 22, 2010 3:40 PM EDT up reply actions
Yea, I think it was Neil who had the puck, and it sort of bounced around and ended up on Foligno’s stick.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Sep 22, 2010 3:41 PM EDT up reply actions
Phaneuf pinched and didn’t take his man out which has been a knock on him for a long time. He took himself out of position but didn’t also eliminate his man.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
naww,,,
I was thinking he let up on em and paid the price.
tru·cu·lence noun \ˈtrə-kyə-lən(t)s also ˈtrü-\
Definition of TRUCULENCE
: the quality or state of being truculent
by -HARDCOREBUDSFAN- on Sep 22, 2010 6:18 PM EDT up reply actions
I wanna know why people are saying Lebda played a good game
am I the only one who thinks he was just frigging terrible all game long but was just lucky enough not to be the focal point of any monumental break downs?
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Sep 22, 2010 3:44 PM EDT reply actions
Intervention time
I say we all breathe a little here.
Fairweather fans can go to hell
Equal oppurtunity asshole and a proud member of the PPPPP
Follow me on twitter: leafer1984
I think I just popped a hemorrhoid.
When I read the nickname Testicula, the first thing that popped into my head was a vampiristic scrotum that can only be killed with a silver cross driven through the vas deferens. - Certified Grabbo Lover
photo evidence please
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 3:47 PM EDT up reply actions
We just need 1 win and it will be a post-game .gif party and we’ll all be happy again.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Sep 22, 2010 3:56 PM EDT up reply actions
I can’t wait for the NPH gifs!
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Sep 22, 2010 3:57 PM EDT up reply actions
I hope these are going to become regular things, because I really liked this post.
...sometimes I wake up cradling a gourd.
I remember the offseason
When I had time to read every single post and every single comment.
Those days are gone again…
But I have hockey!!!! A big Kessel YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY!
"We can't solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Sep 22, 2010 6:03 PM EDT reply actions
After such a good pre-season last year i kind of hope this one is wack so that we dont lose all the games in october again. Versteeg was ballin last night.
tru·cu·lence noun \ˈtrə-kyə-lən(t)s also ˈtrü-\
Definition of TRUCULENCE
: the quality or state of being truculent
by -HARDCOREBUDSFAN- on Sep 22, 2010 6:14 PM EDT reply actions
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