RealignWHUT?
by birky on Jan 7, 2012 10:43 AM EST
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News broke last night that the NHLPA has rejected the NHL's new realignment plan for the 2012-2013 season. Afterwards, the NHL announced that they will be keeping the current conference and divisional alignment for at least one more season due to the NHLPA's decision. This doesn't really impact the Leafs, other than the obvious diminished playoff chances that would come from playing in a smaller division. I'm sure ownership groups in the Western Conference are less than thrilled. Anyways, here are the links:
Poor PK does not reflect well on Ron Wilson
Jeff Blair of the G & M chimes in with his yearly hockey column
Maple Leafs assign Frattin to Marlies
Update from CP, courtesy of the G & M
Other Montreal Canadien fan complaints
#1: Why do we stink?
Has the term "All-Star" lost its meaning?
VLM ponders that very question
Rynnas, Marlies blank Oklahoma City
MarliesHQ with the recap
Marlies roster sees significant changes
Kyle the Reporter on all of the changes
Top 11 of 2011: Hockey's Babe and more
New one from Diamond Cuts and Wax Stains
Burke, Leafs change approach to building lineup
Luke Hardonkulous from the Hockey Writers has this one
Kessel, Lupul leading Leafs offense isn't all good
Another good one from Mr. Hardonk
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Interesting move by the NHLPA. I mean, yeah, it’s probably just CBA leverage – I’m sure their “concerns” can be bought off – but the realignment plan’s home-and-home travel and western-conference-teams-don’t-make-the-playoffs-as-much were two legitimate, serious flaws. The first of which Burke even admits to disliking (one, two), the second of which I’m sure no NHL GM would ever admit to even being a problem.
Also, LeBrun with a section on the Leafs’ trade targets (top 6 center with size), and Burke confirms, but says It might come from Joe Colborne (Skinny picked up on that one). Our smallest center, currently, is also our UFA center.
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
Also, Burke takes the we don’t discuss players under contract route about Grabbo’s re-signing.
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
Burke also had a reply tweet yesterday saying they would do a 24/7 if it was part of a winter classic. Foreshadowing? Seems like hes changing his tune from an absolute rejection of 24/7
Being a Leafs fan makes me bipolar.
Burke just wants to cash in on HBO PPV for his barnyard brawl with Lowe
by m3smth on Jan 7, 2012 11:12 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I suspect the League never wanted to give the WC to a Canadian team, until they started realizing that the HBO ratings were more than about the teams involved. Lets face it: having Burke and Wilson on 24/7 would be incredibly entertaining TV.
Move along. Nothing to see here...
by Van Ryn's Neurologist on Jan 7, 2012 11:20 AM EST up reply actions
I wonder how much Burke would actually be on. Last year Shero and McPhee were both featured a number of times, but I don’t think I saw Glen Sather at all this season, and I only remember seeing Holmgren once. They’ve really decided to focus in on the coaches this time.
The plural of "anecdote" is not "data".
Internet Champ. I'm on Twitter too! - draglikepull
by Draglikepull on Jan 7, 2012 11:29 AM EST up reply actions
BB: Don’t like WC, wouldn’t do 24/7.
GB: Hey Brian, we’re thinking about a Detroit-Toronto WC and 24/7. Thoughts?
BB: Great fucking idea! I love the WC and would love to be on 24/7!
Anyone watch Top Gear? It reminds me of when Jeremy wanted to get on the list for receiving a Ford GT in England so for like 3 episodes he said all Fords were amazing, and great, and Super Cool, etc….
The First Certified Grabbo Lover
by SkinnyFish on Jan 7, 2012 11:12 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
POOWWWWEERRRR!!!!
At least it's not Lebda.
by Nifty Mittens on Jan 7, 2012 12:54 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Top Gear Rules!
The original version only. (No offense to our America brethren intended.)
by ChrisFromParadise on Jan 7, 2012 1:57 PM EST up reply actions
ugh, I wish people would stop with this, the American 1st season was leaps and bounds better than the first 3 seasons of the now British classic, but they get shit for it constantly. If Clarkson et all got so long to get the formula right, then why can’t we at least give the Americans the same leway?
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 2:00 PM EST up reply actions
Because nobody cares about Rutledge and the other fat guy isn’t funny.
The First Certified Grabbo Lover
right, they should replace adam with someone who knows what they are talking about, Rutledge will come around given a chance
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 8:08 PM EST up reply actions
Wilson and Babcock said they were talking about it together yesterday. I’m sure there’s a lot of rubber-stamping still to go around, but it’s basically the worst kept secret in hockey at this point. The big “secret” will be whether or not they let me drink when I’m there.
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
Leafs WC = buy scalped tickets. Oh mama.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
by Chemmy on Jan 7, 2012 11:33 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
Why aim for scalped? You don’t think there’ll be some cheaper nosebleeds when they release?
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Me on Twitter
Uh, no?
I’ve tried to get tickets to every WC so far.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
True enough, though we’re talking about 2-2.5x the seating/tickets.
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
Unless it’s in Comerica.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
Also I don’t think NBC is airing a Canadian team in the Winter Classic.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
DIDN’T YOU KNOW BRIAN BURKE HAS TURNED THE LEAFS INTO AN AMERICAN TEAM!!!
DTUKERFRANCHISE!!!!
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
I also write things about stuff over at the Leafs Nation
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Jan 7, 2012 11:58 AM EST up reply actions
Leafs against anyone other than the Wings, and I think you’re right. But as is, they’ve got tons of “history”/“historic rivalry” stuff to talk about, and both the Wings and Leafs are nationwide fanbases.
And yeah, I guess they could choose to do it somewhere other than the big house.
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
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NBC needs two big American markets. It doesn’t matter that there are more US Leafs fans than Phoenix fans, Phoenix won’t get in the game either.
Pension Plan Puppets*
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List of organs and appendages I would give up to see Leafs vs. Wings outdoors:
Kidney
Pinky Toe
Right-Nut
Pinky Finger
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
I also write things about stuff over at the Leafs Nation
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Jan 7, 2012 11:53 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
God I hope it’s at the Big House… my uncle-in-law is both a huge Michigan Donor and a Huge Wings fan…. he’s going to get tickets… the question is can I suck up to him enough to get one
by Chi-town leafs on Jan 7, 2012 1:06 PM EST up reply actions
If it happens, I’m going. This will be fucking awesome.
Pension Plan Puppets
I hope YouTube comes down to film this.
I’ve set aside some money for two things. One, if the Leafs make the playoffs, I’ll be there at one game of every series, at least. Two, if the Leafs play in front of 100,000 people, I’ll be one of them.
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
Also saw one of the Leafs reporters yesterday saying Ron Wilson and Mike Babcock had shared a phone call discussing a potential Leafs/Wings Winter Classic. Methinks this is looking like a pretty real possibility.
The plural of "anecdote" is not "data".
Internet Champ. I'm on Twitter too! - draglikepull
by Draglikepull on Jan 7, 2012 11:28 AM EST up reply actions
And, uh . . . Bower just said the same thing.
The plural of "anecdote" is not "data".
Internet Champ. I'm on Twitter too! - draglikepull
by Draglikepull on Jan 7, 2012 11:30 AM EST up reply actions
well, not “just.” I mean, it was 16 minutes earlier.
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
I agree with the concerns over chances of the teams making the playoffs, but the extra travel complaint is stupid. It’s their life and to get paid hundreds of thousands to millions a year doing something you love and complain that you have to travel first class more often just doesn’t make me feel pity.
Also, I hear on the major concerns is that Winnipeg doesn’t want out of the Southeast – they’ve grown accustomed to facing Carolina all the time.
So, apparently I can now be followed.. but no stalking. @alsonamedphil
“other people have it worse so you can never complain about anything.” Even assuming the concerns are genuine, rather than pure CBA-bait, the NHLPA isn’t looking for your pity. I can’t imagine if your boss said “I’d like you to spend less time with your family next year, but I won’t give you an example of how much less, and you’re definitely not getting a raise for it (in fact, you might be getting a lower salary next year),” your first reaction would not be “sign me up!” It would be “what recourse do I have?” The NHLPA has recourse.
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
I don’t understand the sentiment that some fans have that if you make lots of money you suddenly don’t care if you get to see your family anymore.
The plural of "anecdote" is not "data".
Internet Champ. I'm on Twitter too! - draglikepull
by Draglikepull on Jan 7, 2012 11:31 AM EST up reply actions
Because some of us fans bust our balls and rarely see our families for a small fraction of what the players are paid.
"They build a statue, they knock it down and piss on it, and now they will be out there building it again."
by ThickSkinnedAlive on Jan 7, 2012 11:36 AM EST up reply actions
So you’re saying your employer could buy some of your love for your family from you?
The plural of "anecdote" is not "data".
Internet Champ. I'm on Twitter too! - draglikepull
by Draglikepull on Jan 7, 2012 11:38 AM EST up reply actions
Saying that many people without elite athletic ability face for worse travel conditions and spend more time away from their families for far less compensation. It’s all about putting food on the table for those you love even if it means time away from them.
"They build a statue, they knock it down and piss on it, and now they will be out there building it again."
by ThickSkinnedAlive on Jan 7, 2012 11:41 AM EST up reply actions
OK, but if you could make the same amount of money and see your family more, surely you would fight for that, wouldn’t you? I would, even if I made a trillion dollars a year.
The plural of "anecdote" is not "data".
Internet Champ. I'm on Twitter too! - draglikepull
by Draglikepull on Jan 7, 2012 11:42 AM EST up reply actions
But you are saying “I don’t understand the sentiment of fans”. Hard for the average joe to feel sorry for a person winning the lotto annually for playing a game.
"They build a statue, they knock it down and piss on it, and now they will be out there building it again."
by ThickSkinnedAlive on Jan 7, 2012 11:47 AM EST up reply actions
if not seeing your family was really a concern, why not just quit playing hockey, and invest the millions you’ve already made, and live off the interest?
by JohnerstonRex on Jan 7, 2012 4:16 PM EST up reply actions
probably because hockey is all most of these guys have ever known and arn’t good at anything else, especially things like investing, and without hockey they have no idea what to do with themselves?
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 4:18 PM EST up reply actions
I am awfully tempted to cite Rocky V when Rocky’s crooked promoter swindles him out of all his money, but that would be ridiculous.
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Jan 7, 2012 4:34 PM EST up reply actions
thats probably it. I know that’s probably the case, but realistically if it’s such a concern, there are ways around it. I’m just trying to illustrate that slightly increased travel is probably not really a sticking point with the NHL alignment. This seems to me to be more grandstanding than anything else.
by JohnerstonRex on Jan 7, 2012 4:37 PM EST up reply actions
Aside from everything else, at its simplest right now interest rates are practically zero and not looking to move anywhere for a while. Frankly if you invested all your money into a savings account you would actually be losing money because you will not find any bank anywhere that will give you interest ahead of the rate of inflation right now.
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Jan 7, 2012 4:28 PM EST up reply actions
When you have that kind of money you can get better rates.
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Significantly better? I doubt it. I just think saying “quit and just live off the interest on the millions in their bank accounts” is overly simplistic.
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Jan 7, 2012 4:33 PM EST up reply actions
There are people who eat nothing but hardtack, so I don’t ever want to hear you complain if your food tastes a little off, okay? And if the power goes out in your house – well, there are people in the world who don’t have electricity, so don’t complain about it. In fact, if you have a bad day, you’d best suck it up, because there’s a 99.999 (repeating, of course)% chance that someone out there is having a worse one.
No, that’s just silly. You’ve got legitimate concerns and you’ve got a legitimate recourse – I’m not going to begrudge you for acting on it. Just like I’m not going to begrudge players (or their union reps) if they want their opinion expressed and taken in to consideration. (I may begrudge players if their opinions are just fronts for empty bargaining leverage, but in that case, we’re back to talking about intent.)
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
One close friend does communication installations for the military and is typically gone for 6 weeks and then gets 1 week off. Another works in demolition and frequently leaves town for weeks on end as well. He actually got to cut the ice pad at the old Gardens.
"They build a statue, they knock it down and piss on it, and now they will be out there building it again."
by ThickSkinnedAlive on Jan 7, 2012 11:51 AM EST up reply actions
Off the top of my head, my wife’s cousin is a buyer. She’s on the road one week out of four year round. Usually on long-haul trips to Singapore, China, Hong Kong, etc.
My brother in-law sets up out-sourcing offices in the Caribbean and India. He travels three weeks out of four. His reward points are stratospheric.
Bitter Leaf Fan Blog | You can Follow Me on Twitter
NBA players travel the most of any of them.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
I also write things about stuff over at the Leafs Nation
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Jan 7, 2012 11:54 AM EST up reply actions 6 recs
I’m very disappointed no one got my terrible joke.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
I also write things about stuff over at the Leafs Nation
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Jan 7, 2012 12:42 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
OH NOW I GET IT
You sneaky bastard, you.
99% of player salaries are payed out to only 1% of players. #OccupyNHL
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by MLS on Jan 7, 2012 2:12 PM EST up reply actions
I actually mostly agree with that first sentiment, but that’s beside the point. How much extra travel are we talking here? This isn’t day long bus rides. Teams still have 41 games on the road a year so we’re looking at, what? A few extra hours on some flights? Really doesn’t seem a huge complaint to me in a business is really only traveling from October to May for the majority of teams.
So, apparently I can now be followed.. but no stalking. @alsonamedphil
Here’s the thing: The NHLPA doesn’t know. Allegedly, they asked the NHL for an example of what a re-aligned schedule would look like, and the NHL failed to provide it. Just like you’re asking, the NHLPA doesn’t know if it’s a “few extra hours” or a “couple of days’ time”.
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
I wouldn’t be shocked if this was the players bargaining chip (obviously we’d never find out that it was x for x in the negotiations) for being able to play in the olympics.
by Chi-town leafs on Jan 7, 2012 11:08 AM EST up reply actions
LeBrun's article makes me laugh
Brian Burke has made big deals in January. For example, Dion Phaneuf was acquired on Jan. 31, 2010, and Joffrey Lupul and Jake Gardiner were acquired Feb. 9 last season, three weeks before the trade deadline.
About time that people finally realized how awesome Gunnar is...
Certified Gunnar & Kule lover!
My new goal: To get the nickname Hebrew Hammer for Mike Brown to take off.
The NHL didn’t consult with the players or the NHLPA on re-alignment and didn’t respond to the NHLPA’s requests for more information or on-going consultations.
Were I the NHLPA, given the NHL’s approach, I wouldn’t have passed the re-alignment plans either.
I would have had my messaging ready much quicker. On that front, the NHLPA looks to be losing the first PR skirmish of the impending labour dispute.
Bitter Leaf Fan Blog | You can Follow Me on Twitter
Yeah. From the political realm of “if you’re defending, you’re losing,” the NHLPA should’ve had statements like this coming out for the last month (although, maybe they didn’t want to give the NHL an opportunity to respond publicly).
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
Their statement came out awfully late last night. They should have had a statement prepared to distribute the second the NHL broke the news.
The first media cycle framed the issue as the NHLPA rejecting re-alignment which isn’t quite correct and certainly puts the union in a negative light. That’s a difficult starting point for the NHLPA’s comms staff.
Bitter Leaf Fan Blog | You can Follow Me on Twitter
impending labour dispute.
Sigh. Another labour dispute could easily ruin hockey fandom in North America, just as it was growing in popularity. I just have that feeling. I’m still unhappy with the lockout 7 years ago, and the owners got what they wanted – a hard cap. Why play hardball now? If the issue is revenue sharing, and the players want to keep the 57% and the league wants it down to 50%, then it’s negotiable.
But you’re right on both counts. The NHL didn’t so much as consult with a single NHLPA guy during the realignment talks. But from a PR perspective, it’s clear that the NHLPA doesn’t actually care about the realignment per se, and just wanted to use it for leverage.
Fi-re Wil-son! Clap-Clap Clap-Clap-Clap!!!
by Peter de Chatham on Jan 7, 2012 11:19 AM EST up reply actions
But from a PR perspective, it’s clear that the NHLPA doesn’t actually care about the realignment per se, and just wanted to use it for leverage.
What makes you draw this conclusion? (Not that it’s wrong, I thought the NHLPA’s concerns were legit).
Bitter Leaf Fan Blog | You can Follow Me on Twitter
One reason is because the NHLPA is a union, and generally unions tend to favour outcomes that treat workers evenly. So if their concern is travel, then surely the realignment plan makes travel requirements more equitable across the league, compared to the present situation. The union should be in favour of it.
The other reason (16 teams West, 14 teams East) is also bogus, as it’s a contingency move by Bettman against the likely move of Phoenix ot an Eastern market. It’s likely that the east and west would be balanced before long. And, even if they weren’t, two conferences our of four would always have to have 8 teams to the other two’s 7.
Plus, the public announcement of the move takes the realignment off the table in the public negotiations. Since any 2012-13 season will be played under the old alignment, now the negotiations are pretty much going to just be the owners going after the players for more money. Which, given the owner’s victory 7 years ago, will make them seem greedy. NHLPA gets a PR victory.
Fi-re Wil-son! Clap-Clap Clap-Clap-Clap!!!
by Peter de Chatham on Jan 7, 2012 11:32 AM EST up reply actions
The other reason (16 teams West, 14 teams East) is also bogus
That wasn’t the reason. The reason was something I’ve been harping on for a while now – teams in the 7 team conferences have a better chance of making the playoffs than teams in the 8 team conferences. Players get paid by the league for playoff games. If you were in the half of the PA who was going to play in a conference with a mathematically lower chance of getting playoff pay, wouldn’t you be a little bit concerned about that?
The plural of "anecdote" is not "data".
Internet Champ. I'm on Twitter too! - draglikepull
by Draglikepull on Jan 7, 2012 11:35 AM EST up reply actions
Possibly, but there doesn’t seem to a solution. Fehr said
On the playoff qualification matter, we suggested discussing ways to eliminate the inherent differences in the proposed realignment, but the League was not willing to do so.
I’d be curious to see what the NHLPA had in mind.
Fi-re Wil-son! Clap-Clap Clap-Clap-Clap!!!
by Peter de Chatham on Jan 7, 2012 11:41 AM EST up reply actions
I’ve seen a few people suggest a “cross-over” format where if the 5th team in the larger conference has a better record than the 4th team in the smaller conference, the 5th team from the larger conference makes the playoffs instead. I haven’t run the math myself, but I’m told by people whose math I trust that it eliminates the problem. Apparently the AHL used to do something similar.
The plural of "anecdote" is not "data".
Internet Champ. I'm on Twitter too! - draglikepull
by Draglikepull on Jan 7, 2012 11:44 AM EST up reply actions
I can see why the NHL wouldn’t want this – it’s too complex. They probably just want a nice standings display with a simple playoff cutoff.
Fi-re Wil-son! Clap-Clap Clap-Clap-Clap!!!
by Peter de Chatham on Jan 7, 2012 11:52 AM EST up reply actions
Too complex? If you have a better record, you get in. It’s better than the old (or current) division rule, where you could have a worse record and still finish top 3.
The thing I don’t like about it is, say, a super weak division where everyone pummels the bottom three teams, and then a super tight division where 5-8 wins separates first from last. The super-weak teams get free points, and in a crossover format, they make the playoffs because of weaker competition, not a better team. Unfortunately, this is the case with virtually every division format.
My biggest beef with the proposed new playoff format is that with 30 teams and 4 “divisions” it’s reasonably plausible that you could see the 4 best teams in the league in one division. That means that guaranteed by the 2nd round of the playoffs 2 of them are gone, and by the 3rd round 3 of the top 4 are gone. I’m not sure that makes a whole lot of sense.
That's "Da-ooo". I killed a turkey once, with a shovel.
With the “guaranteed” top 3 divisional slot, that could be the case under the current format as well.
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Me on Twitter
Not true. Worst case scenario is the 4 best teams are in one conference and they end up ranked 1-2-4-5. Still feasible for 1 and 2 to make it to the conference finals.
That's "Da-ooo". I killed a turkey once, with a shovel.
Yeah
I’m actually pretty happy we aren’t going to divisional playoffs next year.
I don’t see how we can’t have a balanced schedule (at least a home and away vs every team) and maintain the current 5 team divisions. You can still seed the division winners 1-2-3, it’s not like home ice advantage doesn’t mean anything, the effect on travel would be the pretty much the same, and you’d still have the big playoff races.
Home and away vs other 25 teams:
50 games
8 games vs each divisional opponent (i.e. one hell of a season series):
32 games
Players get paid by the league for playoff appearances? How so? As far as I know, other than playoff bonuses players don’t get paid in the playoffs. Their salaries cover the regular season.
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Jan 7, 2012 4:18 PM EST up reply actions
The league pays players for playoff appearances. Every player on the team makes the same amount. I forget if it’s based on the number of games or on a per-round basis, though.
The plural of "anecdote" is not "data".
Internet Champ. I'm on Twitter too! - draglikepull
So if their concern is travel, then surely the realignment plan makes travel requirements more equitable across the league, compared to the present situation. The union should be in favour of it.
The option isn’t “realignment” or “no realignment” – it’s a discussion about how the league should be realigned, not whether or not it should.
The other reason (16 teams West, 14 teams East) is also bogus, as it’s a contingency move by Bettman against the likely move of Phoenix ot an Eastern market. It’s likely that the east and west would be balanced before long.
Teams in the West have a less likely chance to make the playoffs. If it’s going to be corrected, it’ll either be corrected by contraction (hah!) or expansion (oh boy). Asking western players to willingly accept a lower chance of making the playoffs (when their only return is a travel schedule that they don’t get to see an example of in advance) before entertaining ideas to correct this? Well, that seems like you’re asking players to take all the risk.
There are legitimate concerns surrounding the realignment plan. Whether the NHLPA’s concerns are genuine, or for leverage, is a matter of intent that I doubt we can guess.
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
The option isn’t "realignment" or "no realignment" – it’s a discussion about how the league should be realigned, not whether or not it should.
Sure there was. Option 1 was always swapping Columbus/Detroit for Wintlanta. Travel would stay uneven across the league. That’s why the NHLPA’s concerns are bogus. If that had been the decision, the NHLPA could have said, “we’re unhappy with the fact that the league has continued to make travel more onerous on the Western Conference teams”.
Fi-re Wil-son! Clap-Clap Clap-Clap-Clap!!!
by Peter de Chatham on Jan 7, 2012 11:48 AM EST up reply actions
Why is wanting to be consulted and part of the process “bogus” – what would constitute a “legitimate” concern?
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Are those the only two options? The NHLPA’s refusal to endorse the current alignment plan necessarily means that they’d rather just swap Columbus/Detroit for Atlantapeg? Because there are other models that could be discussed.
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I had kinda assumed those were the two options. I hadn’t considered a MLB style realignment, though that proposal you linked to doesn’t enumerate the travel requirements.
For example – would each team still play its conference mates 4 times, and every team in the league once? If so, the travel requirements would still be onerous – as the Leafs, for example, would have had to travel to play two away games against the Ducks, Avalanche, Kings, Coyotes, and Sharks. Plus still make western road trips to play half the Western teams that aren’t in their division.
Either way, the NHLPA would likely have made the same objection (increased travel) so that excuse is not legitimate.
Fi-re Wil-son! Clap-Clap Clap-Clap-Clap!!!
by Peter de Chatham on Jan 7, 2012 12:04 PM EST up reply actions
so that excuse is not legitimate.
Linking Zona’s proposal wasn’t an “excuse,” and it wasn’t necessarily a silver bullet for the travel problem, it was just to highlight that there are a ton of ways that re-alignment could be done. My point is that the NHLPA doesn’t need to feel compelled to take what the NHL puts on its plate without any comments or criticism, because there are ways that their legitimate concerns with the current proposal could, in theory, be worked out.
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
I think travel concerns are legitimate. despite the fact that yes, they’re making lots of money, basically the NHL has said “your job right now is X, and going forward it will be Y”. changing someone’s travel and time away from home is a change to their employment, they have a right to be unhappy about it and to complain. they should have been consulted.
That's "Da-ooo". I killed a turkey once, with a shovel.
then surely the realignment plan makes travel requirements more equitable across the league, compared to the present situation. The union should be in favour of it.
According to the NHLPA, they asked the NHL for travel details to demonstrate that re-alignment would reduce travel for players. The NHL didn’t provide it.
The other reason (16 teams West, 14 teams East) is also bogus, as it’s a contingency move by Bettman against the likely move of Phoenix ot an Eastern market. It’s likely that the east and west would be balanced before long.
NHLPA said players had concerns with the discrepancy in playoff odds. I think that’s a legitimate concern.
Plus, the public announcement of the move takes the realignment off the table in the public negotiations. Since any 2012-13 season will be played under the old alignment, now the negotiations are pretty much going to just be the owners going after the players for more money. Which, given the owner’s victory 7 years ago, will make them seem greedy. NHLPA gets a PR victory.
Negotiations are always about money.
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It’s funny but this entire conversation absolutely proves your point. Right away, the first thing people mentioned was that this was a CBA bargaining chip. But if they had come out with their concerns it would have made much more sense to people. Make the NHL explain why they can’t make a sample schedule. That sounds like bullshit by the way.
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I think it’s also worth clarifying something – the PA did not reject the proposal, they asked for more information, and the NHL said that they didn’t have time to provide it.
The plural of "anecdote" is not "data".
Internet Champ. I'm on Twitter too! - draglikepull
by Draglikepull on Jan 7, 2012 12:10 PM EST up reply actions
Dirk Hoag from On the Forecheck, looks into how NHL coaches use their forwards and defense. Pretty interesting stuff.
The First Certified Grabbo Lover
So Wilson is pretty big on defensive line matching, but not so much with the forwards. That’s more or less what I’ve gleaned from watching the games too.
The plural of "anecdote" is not "data".
Internet Champ. I'm on Twitter too! - draglikepull
by Draglikepull on Jan 7, 2012 11:37 AM EST up reply actions
Siegel has a piece on Franson spending some time in the video room.
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
While he’d occasionally look to video during a two-year stint in Nashville, Franson notes that in Toronto they “really stay on top of you” with a greater emphasis on individual assessment. Almost down to a routine for the day after, Franson and Zettler will sift through clips from the most recent game, scouting what went right and what needs to be improved.
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
I love reading that stuff. It fascinates me
Fairweather fans can go to hell
Equal oppurtunity asshole and a proud member of the PPPPP
Follow me on twitter: leafer1984
by leafer1984 on Jan 7, 2012 11:24 AM EST via Android app up reply actions
My guess is that Grabbo and Kulie also watch a lot of tape together. From what I recall last year the whole MKG line was really diligent about it as well.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
I also write things about stuff over at the Leafs Nation
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Jan 7, 2012 11:47 AM EST up reply actions
I don’t think they’re talking about that kind of video
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Jan 7, 2012 4:19 PM EST up reply actions
I don’t know how he does it, but for two years now he’s gotten interesting stories about the players that no one else has.
The plural of "anecdote" is not "data".
Internet Champ. I'm on Twitter too! - draglikepull
by Draglikepull on Jan 7, 2012 11:33 AM EST up reply actions
He = Siegel
The plural of "anecdote" is not "data".
Internet Champ. I'm on Twitter too! - draglikepull
by Draglikepull on Jan 7, 2012 11:33 AM EST up reply actions
He does it by spending way more time at the rink than anyone, by most of the other beat writers’ accounts.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
by Chemmy on Jan 7, 2012 11:34 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
He’s young with something to prove, or so the narrative goes.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
I also write things about stuff over at the Leafs Nation
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Jan 7, 2012 11:47 AM EST up reply actions
From the department of getting way ahead of ourselves
Leafs/Wings Alumni Game would be pretty epic:
Gilmour, Clark, Sundin, Potvin, Sundin
Yzerman, Federov, Lidstrom, Ciccarelli
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
I also write things about stuff over at the Leafs Nation
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Jan 7, 2012 12:04 PM EST reply actions 5 recs
yea, but Lidstrom would be the only player playing in both the Alum and WC game…………..(I don’t know if he’s retiring after this year)
Toronto Maple Leafs: All about the Lemon Grabs
Twitter
It's the kind of game...
That would make me want to fly back to Toronto (or Detroit) from Hawaii… if I still lived there.
"Do not ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive, and then go do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive." - Howard Thurman
by Jeremiah Stanghini on Jan 7, 2012 12:17 PM EST up reply actions
Oh god yes. Give Bower the Parent treatment. “Bower plays the first 10. No one scores.” Oh god yes, please let this happen.
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
I approve of double-shifting Sundin
That's "Da-ooo". I killed a turkey once, with a shovel.
by daoust on Jan 7, 2012 1:05 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Also definitely Domi will play, possibly Mogilny.
It’d also be kind of funny (not ha ha funny) to see Tucker play, since the Leafs are still paying him.
by Chi-town leafs on Jan 7, 2012 1:13 PM EST up reply actions
Also with the Wings, they’d probably get Larionov back too… which’d be pretty cool
by Chi-town leafs on Jan 7, 2012 1:14 PM EST up reply actions
Domi and McCarty… first fight in an alumni game?
by Chi-town leafs on Jan 7, 2012 1:19 PM EST up reply actions
he can drink with Eddie!
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 1:41 PM EST up reply actions
I hope they can get Borschevsky
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 1:38 PM EST up reply actions
also, if it happens, and Todd Gill and Jamie Macoun dont play I will be very sad
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 1:39 PM EST up reply actions
Dear god, if gill and Macoun play,that is bad. I would think Salming would be able to play, maybe Yushkevich who was a fan favorite. Larry Murphy would be hilarious.
gill and macoun were awesome
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 6:14 PM EST up reply actions
NHLPA
are simply being jerks, as Fehr is. Just being a pain to try and make more money for himself without doing anything worthwhile or simply doing anything more.
If this continues, time for a good, long lockout, contract 4 south American teams, and bust the union down to size.
there are teams in the NHL from south america?
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 1:55 PM EST up reply actions
You don’t remember that game back in October against the Mexico City Quetzalcoatls?
by Chi-town leafs on Jan 7, 2012 2:00 PM EST up reply actions
oh yeah, VS the Buenos Aires Banditoes
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 2:02 PM EST up reply actions
Aren’t they the team with the Three Amigos?
by Chi-town leafs on Jan 7, 2012 2:05 PM EST up reply actions
best checking line in the game
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 2:13 PM EST up reply actions
NHLPAOwnership
are simply being jerks, asFehr isrich guys who pressure municipal governments to pay for arenas so they can make more money off of their teams tend to be. Just being a pain to try and make more money forhimselfthemselves without doing anything worthwhile or simply doing anything more.
If this continues, time for a good, long lockout, contract 4 south American teams, and bust the union down to sizeIf the owners rally care about the good of the game, as opposed to union busting so as to line their own pockets, they’ll put in a luxury tax to spread wealth from the big teams to the small ones, while mainting a high hard cap so as to keep competitive balance .
FTFY
by samspade on Jan 7, 2012 2:05 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
shockingly dumb.
Just kidding, I’m not shocked.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
Like reading thoughts confined to 140 characters? I'm on Twitter too.
by PPP on Jan 7, 2012 3:18 PM EST up reply actions
Sucks
to see Frattin get the demotion. has been a little unlucky offensively but all year he’s been consistent defensively/checking and nobody can take him down, the guy’s like a bull mastiff, and i don’t think i’ve seen him make more than one or two risky plays all year. still too good for the fourth line, though. He can work on dominating offensively now, one more lawn-mower obstacle to overcome.
.......................
Monaluckahiki means hockey in Hawaiian.
by OffTheChest on Jan 7, 2012 2:16 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
Frattin has two issues, shot selection and a horrible ability to not clear the puck from the zone, but no, he probably didn’t deserve the demotion, but when it comes down to top line mins in the AHL or 4th line mins on the Leafs, gotta give him the beefy mins
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 2:18 PM EST up reply actions
I love
Watching Frattin run into guys… or for that matter, when guys run into Frattin.
It’s almost always the same outcome.
by c_gee on Jan 7, 2012 3:15 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
I like how Frattin loves hitting former Leafs.
"We are all agreed that your theory is crazy. The question that divides us is whether it is crazy enough to have a chance of being correct."
- Niels Bohr
Sorry, unauthorized hotlinking of copyrighted material not permitted.
by Frag on Jan 7, 2012 3:24 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
NHLPA
THe effin NHL does not need the “blessing” of the NHLPA for Christ sake!! THese jerks led by Donald Fehr still don’t get it, the last lockout almost ruined hockey, now you want another one??? The owners will crush you again in the new CBA if they desire and good for them if they do. These guys travel 1st class everywhere they go, never touch their luggage and are miffed at a little extra travel. They have 4 months off a year. See your family then. What a bunch of babies. I hate Bettman but the owners are going to kick their asses in negotiations..Fehr or no Fehr
travel wasn’t the only reason you know
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 2:41 PM EST up reply actions
yes and they were concerned because two conferences had 8 teams and two had 7 teams……no problem guys we’ll contract Phoenix and Florida. There problem !@#$%^ solved!!
A) you can swear here, the random characters are just odd.
B) As a union I assume they want equitable travel for all of the players. I want to see the players at the top of their game, and frankly while the travel is better than ours (read the general public) travelling is tiring and I would rather it not effect the quality of the game.
C) They should try to keep every bargaining tool they can get because that is simply smart business.
About time that people finally realized how awesome Gunnar is...
Certified Gunnar & Kule lover!
My new goal: To get the nickname Hebrew Hammer for Mike Brown to take off.
THe effin NHL does not need the "blessing" of the NHLPA for Christ sake!!
Actually…
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
no they don’t they were just playing nice, they go to court and shove it down the unions throat and I hope they get a shot of Donals Fehr after that ruling!!!
i’m guessing you arn’t a teamster
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 2:53 PM EST up reply actions
no I’m not, I’m almost not a fan of millionaires crying to play a “game” (which I love dearly) that they would play for free. These guys win the lottery every 15th and 30th and they have the balls to bitch about their quality of work. Millions of Canadians would cut off their left nut to play in ONE NHL game and you bitches are still not happy with all that you have. Talk about the defintion of spoiled!!!!
tell me how you really feel
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 2:59 PM EST up reply actions
also, tell that to wade belak or Derek Boogard
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 3:02 PM EST up reply actions
Boogard was a !@#$% lunatic and a terrible hockey player. He made millions just to skate onto the ice for 30 seconds and punch some guy in the face!! Yeah that sucks. Belak (who I really liked) had a similar role with the Leafs, whil;e he wasn’t a nut LIke Boogard. I feel bad for his family but he had no reason to kill himself. People with far less resoures than Belak deal with depression every day!! Suck it up and act like a man!!!!
Suck it up and act like a man?
You really don’t understand depression do you?
About time that people finally realized how awesome Gunnar is...
Certified Gunnar & Kule lover!
My new goal: To get the nickname Hebrew Hammer for Mike Brown to take off.
No you really don’t understand anything about depression.
First off, assuming you have more than 10 friends you probably have more multiple friends with depression. Second… you know what I can’t even bother explaining this to you. But I suggest you learn some stuff about depression… “Suck it up” is probably the dumbest thing you could say to someone.
About time that people finally realized how awesome Gunnar is...
Certified Gunnar & Kule lover!
My new goal: To get the nickname Hebrew Hammer for Mike Brown to take off.
by BCapp on Jan 7, 2012 3:13 PM EST up reply actions 3 recs
I do a lot of volunteer work for the Canadian Mental Health Association including the Annual Brant County Suicide Awareness fund raiser, and every day I wake up with and take a long look at a bracelet we are all given that says “Somebody Cares About Me” because I suffer from depression. The idea of “Suck it up and act like a man” is an insult to depression sufferers everywhere and I would cordially invite you spend a day walking in the shoes of the very people you insult. It’s not easy and not everybody can handle it but you know what? The people that I talk to every day tell me that they can make it through the day because they DON’T just “Suck it up” and they talk about their problems. I honestly hope you never have to say good bye to your friend because it would truly be a waste but attitudes like this do nothing but compound the problem
If you look up "Loyalty" in the dictionary you'll see a picture of a Leafs fan wearing a Todd Gill jeresy looking like he just got punched in the stomach
by Ghostsof on Jan 7, 2012 3:30 PM EST up reply actions 12 recs
Very well put. Didn’t feel like responding with anything but insult but thanks for the articulation.
Oh, I'm sorry, just one moment. Is this a five minute argument or the full half hour?
It took awhile to write that because in my line of work sometimes you gotta wear the velvet gloves and not just jump to the first thing you want to say and to be honest I think I would have been much better served had I taken Theninjagregs approach but sometimes you use the feather and other times you use the hammer. I’m sure Captain Dickhead there got the point that we were all trying to make.
If you look up "Loyalty" in the dictionary you'll see a picture of a Leafs fan wearing a Todd Gill jeresy looking like he just got punched in the stomach
Having lost family members and friends from depression, I have no patience for people who say “Just suck it up.”
I will stand beside him with an axe! @theninjagreg
You shut the fuck up about depression. Just. Shut. Up.
I will stand beside him with an axe! @theninjagreg
by theninjagreg on Jan 7, 2012 3:37 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
and with that, you are officially an idiot and will no longer be taken seriously
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 3:11 PM EST up reply actions
no, stupidity hurts
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 3:13 PM EST up reply actions
anyway
bottom line the owners will crush the players (like always) and I for one will be glad to see it!!
I know, it’s so awesome when the owners who are all billionaires try to squeeze more money from the people who make the business what it is… so cool
by Chi-town leafs on Jan 7, 2012 3:15 PM EST up reply actions
It is amazing to me that people take the side of billionaires in these debates, arguing that millionaires should be happy with what they have. Truly baffling.
In the court of public opinion, Steve Simmons is Lionel Hutz.
It’s some kind of Bizarro World class warfare.
The plural of "anecdote" is not "data".
Internet Champ. I'm on Twitter too! - draglikepull
man, I can’t wait till the oil sheiks crush the will of the big oil CEO’s!
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 3:30 PM EST up reply actions
Nhlnumbers.com lists 486 million-dollar salaries for this year, while 801 players have gotten ice time. FWIW.
Oh, I'm sorry, just one moment. Is this a five minute argument or the full half hour?
i see you are as witty as you are knowledgable
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 3:14 PM EST up reply actions
You have got to be kidding me
"There is no big lie, no system. The universe is indifferent."- Don Draper
Follow me on Twitter! @Will_Collie
by Killer Sundin on Jan 7, 2012 3:15 PM EST up reply actions
I’m hoping it’s actually someone intelligent doing a parody of extreme ignorance.
That's "Da-ooo". I killed a turkey once, with a shovel.
I actually hope the same thing about 95% of yahoo comments.
That's "Da-ooo". I killed a turkey once, with a shovel.
THM wasn’t a total dumbass, just a sens fan with a chipped shoulder
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 3:18 PM EST up reply actions
At least that guy was trolling hockey instead of, um, crippling mental disorders.
Oh, I'm sorry, just one moment. Is this a five minute argument or the full half hour?
Give the man (I am assuming here) some credit. Not only was he trolling crippling mental disorders: he used misogyny to troll a crippling mental disorder!
About time that people finally realized how awesome Gunnar is...
Certified Gunnar & Kule lover!
My new goal: To get the nickname Hebrew Hammer for Mike Brown to take off.
oh man,
Toronto Maple Leafs: All about the Lemon Grabs
Twitter
by LeafFan1989 on Jan 7, 2012 3:20 PM EST up reply actions 4 recs
So you’re a fan of billionaires fucking over their workers?
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
Like reading thoughts confined to 140 characters? I'm on Twitter too.
by PPP on Jan 7, 2012 3:19 PM EST up reply actions
One of the biggest obstacles for the mentally ill to get help is the pervasive attitude in society that the depressed should “get over it” and that depression is something people can just get over.
Anyone who’s reading this who suspects they have depression, talk to someone. If there’s no one available email one of us at the bottom of the page.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
by Chemmy on Jan 7, 2012 5:03 PM EST up reply actions 3 recs
Or me at bcapp.ppp@gmail.com. While I am only a medical student I have a passion for mental health and can help hook you up with local help and resources.
About time that people finally realized how awesome Gunnar is...
Certified Gunnar & Kule lover!
My new goal: To get the nickname Hebrew Hammer for Mike Brown to take off.
I’m also always willing to talk. It’s part of what I do for the CMHA and I am more than willing to listen. Kyle_Furlong@live.ca. I could care less who knows my name or email and would rather chance somebody sending me spam for Euro wives then risk doing something that could harm themselves.
If you look up "Loyalty" in the dictionary you'll see a picture of a Leafs fan wearing a Todd Gill jeresy looking like he just got punched in the stomach
It’s interesting that for the longest time you could basically substitute “depression” with “concussion” and get the same reaction in the hockey world. Well, at least things are starting to change.
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Jan 7, 2012 5:11 PM EST up reply actions
Actually they do. If the NHLPA does not agree, there will be no hockey. The players probably shouldn’t have been included in the decision for realignment.
About time that people finally realized how awesome Gunnar is...
Certified Gunnar & Kule lover!
My new goal: To get the nickname Hebrew Hammer for Mike Brown to take off.
Just got back from a week in Cuba. What did I miss?
Last thing I saw were the Leafs losing to Carolina in OT.
About time that people finally realized how awesome Gunnar is...
Certified Gunnar & Kule lover!
My new goal: To get the nickname Hebrew Hammer for Mike Brown to take off.
welcome back, comrade!
a loss to Jets on New Years.
two straight wins from Gus, including a shutout.
Move along. Nothing to see here...
by Van Ryn's Neurologist on Jan 7, 2012 2:58 PM EST up reply actions
Thanks man
How the hell did Ottawa get ahead of us?
What happened to Bozak?
Anyone been demoted/called up?
Why is Gus playing back to backs?
Any trades/trade rumours?
About time that people finally realized how awesome Gunnar is...
Certified Gunnar & Kule lover!
My new goal: To get the nickname Hebrew Hammer for Mike Brown to take off.
Ottawa had three straight wins, during which they lead the game for 0 minutes. They’re getting really lucky. Expect a correction soon (also see: Minnesota).
Bozak went into the end boards head first in practice last week.
Holzer and Frattin down.
Komisarek, Brown back in the lineup tonight.
Wilson claims he’s playing a “win and you’re in” strategy. Gus posted a 3-GA (7 GF) win against TBL, then a shutout v. winnipeg. Bonus is that this is a western conference game, so if Gus loses, we’re only out the two points.
Reportedly only Koivu and Selanne are “untouchable” on Anaheim’s roster, per Murray himself, and there’ve been a couple rumors that Getzlaf is on the block. As I mentioned above, Burke has been talking about getting some size into the top six, possibly even from Colborne, so I’m inclined to think Grabbo has a ticket punched.
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
I can’t figure out Ottawa at all. They’re beating Philly 2-1 now.
That's "Da-ooo". I killed a turkey once, with a shovel.
Thanks for the updates BP. Sad to see Holzer down, I have some faith in him and Ottawa is making me uncomfortable. They have no forward depth and very little defensive quality in their defenders. I don’t get it.
In regards to Anaheim, I find it kind of odd they consider Koivu untouchable. As well you have to assume Fowler is also more or less untouchable.
About time that people finally realized how awesome Gunnar is...
Certified Gunnar & Kule lover!
My new goal: To get the nickname Hebrew Hammer for Mike Brown to take off.
Koivu has an NTC. Murray also said that he thinks they have some good “core players” and that if any of the “core players” are going out, he’s going to be getting core players back.
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
and one where he posted an .875 but the Leafs scored 7 goals.
That's "Da-ooo". I killed a turkey once, with a shovel.
kudos on not taking the bait VRN. you’re getting better.
That's "Da-ooo". I killed a turkey once, with a shovel.
actually, i was absent.
Move along. Nothing to see here...
by Van Ryn's Neurologist on Jan 7, 2012 7:15 PM EST up reply actions
Welcome home BCapp!
I thought we were missing a PPP regular for a little while
99% of player salaries are payed out to only 1% of players. #OccupyNHL
I'm a Twitter twat.
by MLS on Jan 7, 2012 4:30 PM EST up reply actions
Hahaha thanks.
About time that people finally realized how awesome Gunnar is...
Certified Gunnar & Kule lover!
My new goal: To get the nickname Hebrew Hammer for Mike Brown to take off.
Oh I know
Brian Burke had a press conference about Colton Orr getting sent down (finally!), and how he feels the game is changing towards rats running the league. Typical Burke rant-style presser.
http://video.mapleleafs.nhl.com/videocenter/console?hcatid=799&navid=DL|TOR|home
(It might automatically start at part 2 by mistake FYI)
99% of player salaries are payed out to only 1% of players. #OccupyNHL
I'm a Twitter twat.
by MLS on Jan 7, 2012 4:36 PM EST up reply actions
Boston
dirtiest bunch of fuckers
Move along. Nothing to see here...
by Van Ryn's Neurologist on Jan 7, 2012 2:57 PM EST reply actions
I don’t think that was near as bad a hit as people are making it out to be, and I hate brad marchand
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 3:01 PM EST up reply actions
looked pretty intentional. he either meant to clip him, or he wanted to avoid a hit by submarining him. either way it’s dirty.
Move along. Nothing to see here...
by Van Ryn's Neurologist on Jan 7, 2012 3:08 PM EST up reply actions
short dude goes for a hip check, hits bigger guy a little low
that’s what i see
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 3:12 PM EST up reply actions
That’s a really low hip check…….don’t know about intentional but very dangerous hit
Toronto Maple Leafs: All about the Lemon Grabs
Twitter
yeah, i finally saw it again and retract my previous statements
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 3:26 PM EST up reply actions
I have to say
Luke Hardonkulous would be a great male porn star name.
I will stand beside him with an axe! @theninjagreg
Luke Hardonkulous
Would make a great male porn star name.
I will stand beside him with an axe! @theninjagreg
ANY PPP'ERS GOING TO TONIGHT'S GAME?
I am! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!
I will stand beside him with an axe! @theninjagreg
Lucky bastard. Next game I am going to is the Sundin game WOOOOOOO
About time that people finally realized how awesome Gunnar is...
Certified Gunnar & Kule lover!
My new goal: To get the nickname Hebrew Hammer for Mike Brown to take off.
Me too. I found out yesterday that instead of going with the 9th row greens that I bought, I get to go free of charge in Platinums, first row behind the Leafs bench, beside the hall where the players walk in. PUMPED.
That's "Da-ooo". I killed a turkey once, with a shovel.
W.T.F.
That is awesome! Congrats man, how did that happen?
About time that people finally realized how awesome Gunnar is...
Certified Gunnar & Kule lover!
My new goal: To get the nickname Hebrew Hammer for Mike Brown to take off.
he has a really nice suit and an affinity for sushi
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 3:46 PM EST up reply actions
you might want to consider looking for new material.
That's "Da-ooo". I killed a turkey once, with a shovel.
oh ive considered it, but that is as far as I got
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 3:48 PM EST up reply actions
at least you’re considering it, that’s a good first step.
That's "Da-ooo". I killed a turkey once, with a shovel.
Id wear a fucking suit to get those seats.
"You have to learn the rules of the game. And then you have to play better than anyone else."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Jan 7, 2012 4:56 PM EST up reply actions
read it already.
Still cheaper for me to buy a suit
"You have to learn the rules of the game. And then you have to play better than anyone else."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Jan 7, 2012 5:12 PM EST up reply actions
ironically because it’s a saturday night game i’ll be wearing regular duds, but I was in my suit on Thursday night sitting up in the purples.
speaking of which, we managed to get a bit of a ‘THRASH-ERS, THRASH-ERS’ chant going, and by the end of the game I also had a 9-year old kid behind me aping me yelling ‘YOU SUCK ATLANTA!’
i was surprised how few Jets jerseys there were in my section though, there was like 3 or 4 at most. I was disappointed actually, limited my heckling targets.
That's "Da-ooo". I killed a turkey once, with a shovel.
Friend of mine has company seats, he came into this game unexpectedly. He’s taking 3 of us, all huge Leafs / Sundin fans (he’s a huge hockey guy as well), it’s going to be out of hand.
That's "Da-ooo". I killed a turkey once, with a shovel.
What jersey are you wearing? I’m in lower bowl behind the Leafs goal. I’ll be the short guy with the Grabbo jersey on.
I will stand beside him with an axe! @theninjagreg
I’m confused, how did you get tickets. I’m told only suits get tickets in the lower bowl apparently.
That's "Da-ooo". I killed a turkey once, with a shovel.
he obviously robbed someone in a suit, duh
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 4:08 PM EST up reply actions
I bought them through the TICKETS link at the top of this page. You’re welcome, PPP.
I will stand beside him with an axe! @theninjagreg
THANK YOU
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
Like reading thoughts confined to 140 characters? I'm on Twitter too.
by PPP on Jan 7, 2012 4:18 PM EST up reply actions
This is truly astounding. I think you should make this into a fanpost and it should be front-paged.
That's "Da-ooo". I killed a turkey once, with a shovel.
I will stand beside him with an axe! @theninjagreg
by theninjagreg on Jan 7, 2012 4:52 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I’d front page it but don’t want people to think we’re pushing the ticket link too hard.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
of course, I was totally kidding.
we’ll just make sure it gets 5 recs and it’ll be on the sidebar for a couple of weeks. let’s go people.
That's "Da-ooo". I killed a turkey once, with a shovel.
by daoust on Jan 7, 2012 5:09 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
You could disguise it in a posting about Samsung!
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Jan 7, 2012 5:11 PM EST up reply actions
2 of us will have Sundin jerseys on. Not sure on the other 2…. one has an autographed versteeg jersey that she will no longer wear, she might borrow my Kabby jersey.
That's "Da-ooo". I killed a turkey once, with a shovel.
Ottawa got a point?! WTF! GO PHILLY!
About time that people finally realized how awesome Gunnar is...
Certified Gunnar & Kule lover!
My new goal: To get the nickname Hebrew Hammer for Mike Brown to take off.
Ottawa's season plans
1. Suck for most of game
2. Come back to tie game in 3rd period
3. Win in OT/SO
4. ?
5. PROFIT!!1
"We are all agreed that your theory is crazy. The question that divides us is whether it is crazy enough to have a chance of being correct."
- Niels Bohr
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Is Ottawa actually that bad?
Obviously like any sane human being I don’t watch Senators’ games unless they’re playing the Leafs. Based purely on the numbers: they have better shot-based metrics than Toronto as well as lower team shooting and save percentages.
They have Spezza and Michalek up front plus an aged Alfreddsson. Behind those three they have what look (at least to me) like a bunch of career third liners who aren’t even necessarily there yet (Butler, Da Costa, Greening, Foligno, etc). On D they have a bunch of guys who can put up points (Karlsson and Gonchar), but at playing actual D they only have 3 guys who are okay (none anything special) in Karlsson, Phillips, and Kuba. Anderson started poorly, but looks to be bouncing back to a league average goalie.
In other words they are a rebuilding team with 2 aged former stars (Gonchar/Alfredsson), 1 prime aged star (Spezza), 3 good but non-star prime aged players (Michalek, Anderson, and Phillips) and one young guy to build around (Karlsson).
About time that people finally realized how awesome Gunnar is...
Certified Gunnar & Kule lover!
My new goal: To get the nickname Hebrew Hammer for Mike Brown to take off.
Agreed. I guess my point is that I’m confused as to how they can look better than the Leafs in most categories.
Maybe their surplus of “third liners and third liners to be” are good possession players with no finish? I dunno.
About time that people finally realized how awesome Gunnar is...
Certified Gunnar & Kule lover!
My new goal: To get the nickname Hebrew Hammer for Mike Brown to take off.
His PDO is 986
"We are all agreed that your theory is crazy. The question that divides us is whether it is crazy enough to have a chance of being correct."
- Niels Bohr
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Yeah, it surprised me too.
"We are all agreed that your theory is crazy. The question that divides us is whether it is crazy enough to have a chance of being correct."
- Niels Bohr
Sorry, unauthorized hotlinking of copyrighted material not permitted.
I’ve always been a big fan of his. Was pretty upset to see him and Anderson end up in Ottawa as I like’d ‘em both. If he shoots at his career SH% and S/GP (12.6% and 2.46 s/GP) for the rest of the year he’ll end up with 32 G and 16.1% shooting percentage.
About time that people finally realized how awesome Gunnar is...
Certified Gunnar & Kule lover!
My new goal: To get the nickname Hebrew Hammer for Mike Brown to take off.
Also
Why aren’t more people making fun of Philly for the 9 year Bryzgalov contract. His numbers are toskalesque this year.
About time that people finally realized how awesome Gunnar is...
Certified Gunnar & Kule lover!
My new goal: To get the nickname Hebrew Hammer for Mike Brown to take off.
I thought the same thing last night looking at his stats in my fantasy pool. I guess when you’re still top 5 or 6 in the league it’s harder to make fun.
That's "Da-ooo". I killed a turkey once, with a shovel.
Having seen him beat himself up over them, I feel bad making fun of Bryzgalov. I mean, I’ll make fun of Phili, sure – 9 years is really dumb – but at least Bryz is apologetic, unlike Toskala.
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
That is why I said, why is no one making fun of Philly and not Bryz. That interview was very painful to watch.
About time that people finally realized how awesome Gunnar is...
Certified Gunnar & Kule lover!
My new goal: To get the nickname Hebrew Hammer for Mike Brown to take off.
I mean, there was a lot of fun made of Phili for that contract in the off-season. It’s kinda like saying “why didn’t people make fun of Gillis’ Luongo extension while last year’s playoffs were going on?” because the people inclined to hating on that team were too busy making fun of Luongo himself.
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
ive been making fun of the phili situation since they traded richards and carter
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 3:56 PM EST up reply actions
I mean, I was too until they put up 50 points in 38 games, even despite some awful goaltending.
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
they are doing better than I thought they would, but as the season gets shorter and teams start tightening up, I think the cracks will start to show, not to mention the playoffs
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 4:02 PM EST up reply actions
Nah, I thought they would do that good.
About time that people finally realized how awesome Gunnar is...
Certified Gunnar & Kule lover!
My new goal: To get the nickname Hebrew Hammer for Mike Brown to take off.
My prediction was that they would do very poorly. This is why I don’t bet money on hockey games.
I will stand beside him with an axe! @theninjagreg
They still had a great defense (didn’t expect Pronger to have these injury problems), in that I would take any of their top 4 in my top 3 and their top 2 are really great players, plus Mezaros. And their offense is just so damn deep (Giroux, JVR, Jagr, Hartnell, Voracek, Hartnell, Simmonds, Schenn, etc), plus they seemed to upgrade their goalie.
About time that people finally realized how awesome Gunnar is...
Certified Gunnar & Kule lover!
My new goal: To get the nickname Hebrew Hammer for Mike Brown to take off.
Sure, definitely. I’m not penciling them in for a Cup or anything. It’s just a question now of if the kids can get ready before Bryzie gets old.
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
If Toskala had Bryzgalov’s runaway mouth, I think folks would’ve given him more rope.
Oh, I'm sorry, just one moment. Is this a five minute argument or the full half hour?
Was it Raycroft or Tosk who said “I thought I played well” after putting up historically bad numbers?
I believe it was Raycroft after his 37-win sub .890 season.
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
The upside (such that it is) to Bryzgalov’s contract is that even if this season is a wash he does have eight more years to get better. Of course on the other hand, he does have eight more years to screw it up
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Jan 7, 2012 4:27 PM EST up reply actions
Some of us drafted him very early in fantasy hockey and it hurts to much to make fun of.
The plural of "anecdote" is not "data".
Internet Champ. I'm on Twitter too! - draglikepull
He currently available in the PPP league, and we have 16 teams with 2 goalies each.
The First Certified Grabbo Lover
damn you for pick ESPN instead of Yahoo. i’m too lazy to get into that format.
i’m pretty sure I need to make about 6 moves to get my team in order. maybe i’ll go check now.
That's "Da-ooo". I killed a turkey once, with a shovel.
Thank you Briere
Giving Ott a loss!
About time that people finally realized how awesome Gunnar is...
Certified Gunnar & Kule lover!
My new goal: To get the nickname Hebrew Hammer for Mike Brown to take off.
Thank you Briere
For destroying Ottawa’s season plans of winning every game for the rest of the season in OT/SO.
"We are all agreed that your theory is crazy. The question that divides us is whether it is crazy enough to have a chance of being correct."
- Niels Bohr
Sorry, unauthorized hotlinking of copyrighted material not permitted.
A little off topic: I picked up NHL 12 for the PS3 this week and am tearing my hair out over the many glitches and freezes in the game.
When I try to load Be a GM it goes to 100% and often just stays there, and if I manage to load a game it will randomly lock up in the middle of a period.
I’ve googled the problem a bit and it doesn’t seem like EA has come up with a solution. Anybody else run into this/figured out a workaround?
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Jan 7, 2012 4:37 PM EST reply actions
for the PS3
I found your problem. (I know of others who’ve had the same problems you have – and yes, on both systems – but I’ve put some good time on the game and I think it’s frozen once, maybe twice, knock on wood)
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
1. Trade Grabbo, Aulie and a 1st for Suter and a random minor leaguer.
2. Laugh
But yeah, I’ve played Be A GM (forever the greatest mode) consistently and IIRC that only happened on the first time I tried it. Faulty disc?
well, that escalated quickly
I’m going to take it back for an exchange. If it still doesn’t work then it’s probably not the disc
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Jan 7, 2012 4:45 PM EST up reply actions
Update it if you haven’t. Might have gotten a damaged copy, mine works perfectly fine.
"If you've ever questioned whether or not @dboyce47 is a gamer, well, the answer is as plain as the nose that used to be on his face." - Sean Boulton
This is a tweet.
I’m on version 1.04 for the game and as far as I know my PS is updated as well. I think I will take it back anyway just to see if that’s the problem
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Jan 7, 2012 5:12 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah it’s probably just the copy you have then.
"If you've ever questioned whether or not @dboyce47 is a gamer, well, the answer is as plain as the nose that used to be on his face." - Sean Boulton
This is a tweet.
It still happens to me. I’ve exchanged for new copies of the game and it makes no difference.
The only thing that appears to help is to turn off the internet connection, but that may just be my imagination.
by potvin vs hextall on Jan 7, 2012 5:24 PM EST up reply actions
Hmm. I’ll try that too. Since the game came out in September I’m guessing it’s not exactly high on EA’s priority list at this point
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Jan 7, 2012 5:38 PM EST up reply actions
It seems like a problem with the latest patch. If it still doesn’t work shut off the network connection completely from the XMB. That’s what I do to play Be a GM.
Not Liking Nikolai Kulemin Means You Have No Soul
Thanks! And thanks to everybody else who responded
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Jan 7, 2012 5:59 PM EST up reply actions
It’s not just the latest patch. The game has been a buggy, constantly crashing mess for me since the day I got it. It’s crashed on me in the menus, in-game, in a number of different modes and situations. I’ve talked to a number of other people who’ve had the same problems. It’s a horribly broken game and EA doesn’t give a shit.
The plural of "anecdote" is not "data".
Internet Champ. I'm on Twitter too! - draglikepull
I’ve had the game crash on me a couple dozen times at least. They put out a patch this week. Here’s how it went.
1. Started downloading patch.
2. Patch failed to download properly, crashing the game.
3. Started downloading patch again.
4. Patch installed properly.
5. Try to load my GM mode.
6. Game hard freezes as soon as the loading bar hits 100%.
7. Reset the console.
8. Start the game again.
9. Try to load my GM mode.
10. Game hard freezes as soon as the loading bar hits 100%.
11. I turn the game off and play Dragon Age.
The plural of "anecdote" is not "data".
Internet Champ. I'm on Twitter too! - draglikepull
I'm glad the realignment got rejected
I think it’s just bush league to have uneven conferences/divisions.
Hard as fuck
Bleeding Blue and White since '88
by Joe Ferguson on Jan 7, 2012 4:57 PM EST reply actions 7 recs
holy…….dude should be wearing a face cage for sure
Toronto Maple Leafs: All about the Lemon Grabs
Twitter
Dion Phaneuf is harder than the streets
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 5:01 PM EST up reply actions
There needs to be a youtube rap video made about Dion with that title.
That's "Da-ooo". I killed a turkey once, with a shovel.
still waiting for a Kanye parody about toskala called “all of the red lights”
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 5:06 PM EST up reply actions
What happened?
About time that people finally realized how awesome Gunnar is...
Certified Gunnar & Kule lover!
My new goal: To get the nickname Hebrew Hammer for Mike Brown to take off.
took a slap shot to the face in the dying minuites of the last game
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 5:07 PM EST up reply actions
I’m liking him as our captain more than I even thought I would. He shows a lot of resilience, we need that in a captain.
Bleeding Blue and White since '88
It seems like the biggest biggest thing keeping people from really embracing him is his salary. I can appreciate that. It’s pretty hard living up to $6.5-million, but I think he’s done a pretty good job in his first full year here
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Jan 7, 2012 5:15 PM EST up reply actions
I have no such qualms right now.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
Any qualms for Lupul’s salary?
About time that people finally realized how awesome Gunnar is...
Certified Gunnar & Kule lover!
My new goal: To get the nickname Hebrew Hammer for Mike Brown to take off.
He’s not getting paid enough?
"If you've ever questioned whether or not @dboyce47 is a gamer, well, the answer is as plain as the nose that used to be on his face." - Sean Boulton
This is a tweet.
seriously, that is brass you cannot buy
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 5:19 PM EST up reply actions
Storing the puck in his cheek for winter.
by stevesmith19 on Jan 7, 2012 5:04 PM EST up reply actions 5 recs
that mother fucker is playing tonight
let this be the introduction to the legend of Dion Phaneuf, Leafs captain
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 5:12 PM EST up reply actions
I wonder if he would go without the full cage if we were playing a dirtier team (i.e. a team with “rats”).
I wonder if that kind of thinking factors in at all.
by potvin vs hextall on Jan 7, 2012 5:28 PM EST up reply actions
Maybe he wants to get hit on the other side, you know, balance out the look
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Jan 7, 2012 5:39 PM EST up reply actions
Quaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaid
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 5:41 PM EST up reply actions
You could wear a full cage or you can listen to your sports gut.
by Spezzal Teams Playa on Jan 7, 2012 5:43 PM EST up reply actions
Quato would own at proline
Resident Internet Tough Guy
by JaredFromLondon on Jan 7, 2012 5:44 PM EST up reply actions
I had my wisdom teeth out earlier this week. My face looked worse than that. I just laid around for a few days though, so Dion’s got that on me.
The plural of "anecdote" is not "data".
Internet Champ. I'm on Twitter too! - draglikepull
I know what it feels like...
Last year playing hockey I took a high stick off a faceoff. It split my lip and cut my gums, luckily didn’t knock out any teeth, and I had a nasty bruise on my cheek. Not much swelling and the bruise went away after a few days, then suddenly about a month later the entire left side of my face swelled up and felt like it was on fire. I went into emerge, and the nurse practitioner opened up an incision to drain it (ouch!) It went down to about half the size it had been. But the next day it was big again, so I went back in, they re-opened the incision and drained a ton more, and it went down again. The picture (below) was taken less than an hour after they drained it the second time. That’s about 1/4 the size it was at its peak. My friends started calling me “toblerone face”. It swelled up again and they drained it a third time, after which they referred me to a plastic surgeon. A quick incision fixed it up, and now I just have a tiny scar to show for it. Must be incredibly uncomfortable for Dion, the worst part for me was trying to sleep, every time I rolled over the pain would shoot through my face and I’d wake up instantly.
Riding the Leafs bandwagon since 1991.
Check out my art!
by CanadianMaple09 on Jan 7, 2012 7:03 PM EST up reply actions
It was actually some type of cyst. But yeah, hard to resist the urge to squeeze it. So much pressure built up under the skin.
Riding the Leafs bandwagon since 1991.
Check out my art!
by CanadianMaple09 on Jan 7, 2012 7:05 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah, the whole left side of my face from my eye socket down to my neck was swelled up like Dion’s, once they drained it the puffiness went down and you could see the pointy cyst underneath.
Riding the Leafs bandwagon since 1991.
Check out my art!
by CanadianMaple09 on Jan 7, 2012 7:06 PM EST up reply actions
Boy the Leafs need a win tonight.
And basically all their games.
Being a Leafs fan makes me bipolar.
I mean, in the grand scheme of games the Leafs “need” to win, a western conference opponent who’s probably beating all the other bubble teams is pretty low. But…it’d be nice.
RIP Former-and-forever Leaf Wade Belak
Me on Twitter
When you’re riding 8th place you really have no leeway for losing.
Being a Leafs fan makes me bipolar.
“There’s Raph”
“Ya, a little too Raph”
If you look up "Loyalty" in the dictionary you'll see a picture of a Leafs fan wearing a Todd Gill jeresy looking like he just got punched in the stomach
by Ghostsof on Jan 7, 2012 6:54 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
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